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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



Hannibal and Katharna 



A DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS 




LIEUT.-COLONEL J. C. FIFE-COOKSON 

•» 

AUTHOR OF 

'with the armies of the BALKANS," " TIGER SHOOTING IN THE DOON AND 
ULWAR," ''a dream OF OTHER DAYS," ETC., ETC. 



Katharna 
'' That is a furnace fit to forge the blade !" — Act I. 



NEW YORK X^fwA»H>^-' I 

G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS '^ i.U f 






LONDON 
KEGAN PAUL. TRENCH, TRUBNER, & CO., Ltd 

1893 



T^ 



Tt\"^ 






■c s'» 



COPYRIGHT, 1893 
BY 

J. C. FIFE-COOKSON 

Entered at Stationers' Hall, Londo7i 

By J. C. Fife-Cookson 



Printed and Bound by 

rbe 1??nfcl?erbocF?er prcfis, Iftew l^oih 
G. P. Putnam's Sons 



PREFACE 

In offering the accompanying drama to the public, 
I desire to mention that although I have adhered 
to some of the principal facts of history, yet that 
I did not feel bound, or think it desirable, to be 
always trammelled by them. 

I may add that Katharna is doubly allegorical. 

J. C. FIFE-COOKSON. 

Lee Hall, Wark, 
North Tyne. 



CONTENTS 















PAGE 


Preface 




V 


Dramatis Persons 










ix 


Act I. Scene i . . . . 










I 


Yahwa's ** Song of the Oriole" 










9 


Act I. Scene 2 










10 


,, 3 












18 


,, 4 












31 


,» 5 . 












46 


,, 6 












49 


Act 11. Scene i 












54 


,y 2 












68 


" 3 












. 74 


,, 4 












. 81 


., 5 












. 84 


Act III. Scene i 












. 90 


,, 2 












. 94 


,, 3 












• 95 


,, 4 












• 99 


.. 5 












. 104 


,, 6 












. loS 



vin 



CONTEXTS 



Act IV. Scene i 
,, 2 

M 3 

>, 4 
,, 5 
,, 6 

Act V. Scene i 
,, 2 
Yahwa's '* Song 

Act V. Scene 3 
,, 4 
,, 5 



of the Cacred Bird ' 



PAGE 

115 
120 
128 

135 
144 
148 
152 
163 
164 
177 
182 
1S6 



DRAMATIS PERSONS 



Hamilcar . 

Hannibal . 
Hasdrubal 
Mago . . 

Magdassan 

Cisco . . 

Maharbal 

Basilio . . 

Katharna. 
Alalia . . 

Hercta. . 

Hanno . . 

Malchus . 
Abdalonim 
muthumbal 

Yahwa . . 

SciPio . . 

Elissa . . 

sophonisba 



The famous Carthaginian General and Suffete. 

His Sons : all Carthaginian Generals. 

\ A Carthaginian General: Second-in-Command of 
I Hamilcar* s army in Spain. 

Chief of the Staff of HannibaV s armies. 

A General in command of HannibaV s Cavalry. 

A Nobleman of ancient Spain. 

' His Daughters. 

Their Attendant. 

] A Carthaginian Suffete: leader of the faction 
\ opposed to Hamilcar and his family. 

His confidential Agent. 

An Agent of Malchus. 

A Carthaginian Scribe. 

I Hamilcar* s Minstrel : afterwards in the service 
' of Kings Sphax and Massinissa. 

The Roman General ^ sur named '''Africanus.'' 

\ Widow of a Carthaginian General, of the 
\ faction opposed to Hanno. 

Her young and beautiful Daughter. 



DRAMATIS PERSONS 



King Sphax . . ) Rival African Princes ruling maritime states to 
King Massinissa \ the West of Carthage. 

Parihu ^ Chief Officer of the Palace to King Sphax, and 

* ( afterguards to King Massinissa. 

The Hunchback \^ P^ter at the Court of King Sphax, and after- 
( wards at that oj King Massinissa, 

The High Priest of Tupiter. 

AULUS . . 



! 



Gavius '^ Roman Soldiers. 

Senator Sy Ambassadors^ Courtiers, Officers, Augurs, Magicians, 
Messengers, Soldiers, Civilians, Truftipeters, Insurgents, Slaves, 6^c. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



ACT I. 

Scene I. 

The Carthaginian camp in Spain during foot-races and 
games. The course traverses the front of the stage, 
and behind it stand crowds of soldiers looking on ; 
in the centre, among the spectators, is a tent, at the 
door of which a standard is planted. 

First Soldier. 
What distance do they go this time ? 

Second Soldier. 

A mile : 
And there they sally now around the bend, 
Their racing legs resembling wheels ! 

First Soldier. 

Hah ! hah ! 
A strange idea of yours, to run on wheels, 
As one might ride a horse ; but there they come. 
Who, think you, wins the race ? 



2 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Second Soldier. 

The swiftest man : 
No demon sits astride upon his neck 
To hold him back and rob him of the prize ! 

( The rufiners pass, amidst excited shouts from 
the croiud.) 
Well run ! well run ! Already now they start 
The second race : there falls the signal flag. 

{Enter Muthumbal. ITe is stotitish, panting from 
the heat, and holds his hel?net in -/lis hatid, while 
7nopping his face with a handkerchief!) 
Well met, Muthumbal : Ao you run to-day? 

Muthumbal. 
Why, only as you see : 'tis very hot ! 

Second Soldier. 

Come, tell us now : how many Roman heads 
Were gathered after yester's skirmishing? 

Muthumbal [aside). 

He is inquisitive, and greatly lacks 
That keen respect which should be due to me ; 
I'll put him off wnth quips and tell nothing. 
Until the list is published in the camp ; 

{K?w7vingly.) 
Let us bamboozle the inquisitive ! 

{Aloud.) 
Well, answer then another question first : 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 3 

Tell me how many Roman soldiers' helms 
Were emptied by it ? 

Second Soldier (aside). 

True, I am no scribe, 
And yet I'll show that I'm as sharp as he ! 

{Aloud.) 
Many a good Roman parted with his helm, 
But being dead had little want of it ; 
Although I know a man not far from here, 
Without a helmet, who has lost his head : 
And, being still alive, he needs them much. 

(MUTHUMBAL Moves uway muttering and putting on 
his helmet. The runners in the second race pass, 
amid cheers. Enter two Soldiers who ran in the 
second race^ and now dispute the prize ^ 

First Runner (angrily). 
Come to the judge and hear what justice says ! 

(^Addressing an Officer who is standing near 
the flag?) 

I pray Magdassan may decide our cause. 

( The Officer enters the tent^ and returfis^ pre- 
ceded by Magdassan.) 

First Runner (to Magdassan). 

Most honoured Chief, he crossed me at the turn. 
Or I had won ! 



4 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SECOND Runner. 

My Lord, his words are false ; 
In fact, he slipped upon the scorched-up ground, 
And almost threw me down ! 

{To the First Runner.) 

Let's fight it out. 
Like men, to-morrow morning at the dawn ! 

Magdassan. 

Have patience both, nor idly waste good blood : 
Fight only with the foe, and then strive well. 
You say you are the fastest ? 

First Runner. 

Aye, my Lord. 

Magdassan. 
And you claim greater speed ? 

Second Runner. 

Yes, noble sir. 

Magdassan. 

Then it would be a boon to both of you 
To run again and better prove your worth. 
So I decide. This evening let it be. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 5 

(Exeunt the Runners. A flourish of trumpets is 
heard, Magdassan co?itinues^ addressing the 
soldiers. ) 

My sons, our mighty leader will arrive, 
To join your sports, as he has shared your toils ; 
I need not ask that you should greet the Chief 
Most reverently : and now Hamilcar comes ! 

{JEnter Hamilcar, preceded by tru7npeters and an 
armed escort. He is attended by Hannibal, 
Hasdrubal, Gisco, Yahwa, &c. The soldiers 
bow the head as Hamilcar /^^i-^^j- them : they then 
remain erect and facing toward him. Hamilcar 
takes his place in front of the standard : the trum- 
peters and escort draw itp on his right ^ and the staff 
on his left. The trumpeters sou?id a flourish^ at 
the end of which the ■ whole concourse of soldiers 
salute Hamilcar ^^ bowing the head and bendi7ig 
the knee : he acknowledges the salute by extendiiig 
his right hand towards them, first to the right a?id 
then to the left j the staff then breaks up its ranks ^ 
the soldiers resume their occupations, the trumpeters 
and escort march to the back of the sce?ie, zvherc 
they re^nain drawn up, awaiting orders. Enter 
at one extremity of the scene, behind the lines of 
soldier-spectators, Basilic, leaning on a stick : next, 
on his further side, and slightly behind, conies 
Katharna, leading by the hand Alalia, who 
appears to shrink timidly back: Hannibal ob- 
serves the?n and approaches, then stops.) 



6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal [aside). 
What beauty, youth, and innocence are here ! 
I will approach awhile to sun myself 
In their bright presence ; and indeed I feel 
There might be more to charm in Spain at peace 
Than I had fancied. 

[Addressing the Soldiers in front (^/Basilic.) 
Soldiers, clear a space 
For welcome visitors. 

( The Soldiers obey, ) 

Basilic. 

I thank you, sir. 
What Cathaginian leader honours me. 
With courtesy to one so old and worn ? 

Hannibal. 

My name is Hannibal. May I inquire 
Your noble house of Spain ? 

Basilic. 

Alas, my Lord, 
Although my garb claims rank, my fortunes ebb ; 
Our lands and wealth were lost in civil wars. 
The curse of Spain. I own a long descent 
From the bold ruler of the Western coast. 
Who triumphed in Iberia's sacred cause 
Against invasions of the fiery Gaul, 
Despoiler of our land upon the East. 
My name's Basilic : at your service, sir. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 7 

Hannibal. 

And I at yours, my Lord, with all my heart ! 

{He looks at Katharna, who lowei^s her eyes?) 
But pray excuse me for a moment, sir. 

(Hannibal returns to Hamilcar and 
addresses him}) 

Hannibal. 

Now there are easy opportunities 
To flatter noble Spain through one of rank, 
Basilio, who is present with his friends. 
Pray show him favour. 

Hamilcar. 

Certainly, my son : 
The chance may serve us well. I wish to learn 
The hopes and fears of Spaniards for the war. 
Conduct him hither presently. 

Hannibal. 

I will. 

(Hannibal retur7is to Basilic atid 
addresses him.) 

Hannibal. 

My father, sir, requests your company. 

Where you may best observe the soldiers' games ; 

I pray you follow where Hamilcar waits. 



8 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

(Basilio, Katharna, and Alalia follow Hanni- 
bal /«? the standard^ where Hamilcar greets them 
most courteously^ and converses with Basilio ; 
while Hannibal talks with Katharna, who still 
holds Alalia's hand.) 

Hamilcar [to Basilio). 

My Lord, you are by right our host in Spain, 

And we your guests. Thrice welcome to my camp ! 

I hope you may return to visit me 

Whene'er you wish to treat of politics : 

Learning my latest news from Africa, 

Or favouring me with yours on home affairs : 

To pass a pleasant hour. 

Basilic. 

Accept my thanks : 
Your Excellency honours me indeed I 

Hamilcar. 

See, Yahwa, there's an oriole on the tree : 
Now tune your lay to match his carolling. 

(Yahwa steps forward, looks up at the bird, and strikes 
a few chords on his guitar : he then sings to its ac- 
cojnpaniment, smiling and playfully addressing the 
bird,) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Song of the Oriole. 

I. 

An oriole flutters on a bough, 
Singing in praise of the cherries : 

" They're not yet ripe, but are ripening now, 
Those lovely, luscious berries ! 



II. 



*' I fought through winter with the cold. 
Famine, rain, wind, and the thunder : 

But now I'm here, and my tale is told, 
My frame nigh riven asunder ! 



III. 

"The stormy season past, I've come 
Home to my haunts in the valley : 

Where warmly shines the reviving sun. 
And whispering zephyrs tarry. 



IV. 



" Here will I warble notes of love, 
Flute-like, resonant, and mellow ; 

Nest in the branch of a pine-wood grove, 
With a mate all black and yellow. 



10 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



" Yes, Summer brings me back again, 

Over the waters from Zelies : 
Cherries are ripening fast in Spain, 

Those lovely, luscious berries ! 

VI. 

" So here I flutter on the bough. 

Chanting the charms of the cherries : 

They'll soon be ripe, and are ripening now, 
Those lovely, luscious berries ! " 

{Curtain.) 



Scene II. 

Basilio's Homestead, Enter Alalia and Hercta. 

Alalia. 
When did you hear this ? 

Hercta. 

Madam, only now : 
I chanced to meet a shepherd from the hill. 
Who said that as he reached the highest crest 
He saw the Romans move to cross the stream ; 
Long columns met and waded through the ford, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA II 

While others in broad barges ferried o'er 

Where it was deep ; then opposite the isle 

Some hardy horsemen plunged into the waves, 

And gallantly attained the sandy wharf 

That lies midway : they rested there awhile, 

Then safely swam across the further arm. 

But as the shepherd hastened down again, 

Driving his flocks, as ordered, to the fold, 

Still other troops approached the crossing-points, 

While scattered on the further river-bank 

There streamed great toiling crowds upon the slopes ; 

Entering the thickest forests on the brows, 

Towards the rocky passes in the hills, 

As if to cross, or halt upon the range 

Within the woodlands. 

Alalia. 

Most important news : 
Those troops may now be on their way from Spain, 
To leave us once again in grateful peace ; 
And when they gain their homes in Italy, 
What joy must kindle in the anxious breasts 
Of wives and children for their safe return ! 
And Carthage will feel equal happiness 
At the home-coming of her well-loved sons. 



Hercta {hastily). 
But will they leave us too ? 



12 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Alalia. 

Of course ! Why not ? 

Hercta {thoicghtftdly) , 

Only that they are gallant men indeed, 
And their protection gives security. 

Alalia. 

But when the danger has all passed away, 
What need for shield and weapons ? 

Hercta [coquettishly). 

None, 'tis true : 
Unless worn as an ornamental badge, 
To please the fancy in our leisure hours. 

Alalia. 
But women need no trophy of the kind ! 

Hercta {archly). 

There may be no necessity ; and yet 
Some prize it all the more for that. 

Alalia {smilifig). 

Indeed ? 
Well, Hercta, if the highly-tempered blade 
jMust now be stored in distant armouries, 
I trust its glitter may not draw you hence ; 
But rather, if it be of sterling worth. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 3 

That you will stay and keep it by your side : 
I hope that all may prosper. 

Hercta {dubiously). 

Ah, madam ! 
'Tis sad to part from such a faithful friend. 

Alalia. 
Who may he be ? 

Hercta {simply). 

Muthumbal is his name : 
A scribe on duty with the Punic host. 

Alalia {hesitating), 

I thought you said he was a warrior : 

Or from your words I might infer as much ? 

Hercta {pettishly). 

His heart beats high with martial energy, 
Yet somebody must do the writing part ! 

{A pause y during which Hercta /rets with 
evident annoyance^ 
Indeed, his post is most responsible : 
Your father says one scribe who wields a pen 
Can do more harm than fifty men with swords ! 

{Another sifnilar pause.) 

Besides, he ranks as captain of a troop ! 

{A si7nilar pause.) 



14 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Alalia. 
What are his functions ? 

Hercta {proudly). 

Registering the heads 
Struck from the fallen foes throughout the war. 

Alalia {aside). 

Most barbarous work ! 

{Aloud,) 
How did you chance to meet ? 

Hercta {?taively). 
One day he passed when I was at the gate, 
And, pausing, asked most courteously of me 
The homestead's name, for note upon his maps : 

{A pause.) 
Since then he takes his evening walks this way. 

Alalia. 
Where can I view from some convenient point 
The Roman host, and verify the tale 
Told by the shepherd ? 

Hercta. 

Madam, follow me 
To where a recent clearing in the wood. 
Upon the steepest slopes below us here. 
Pierces the woven leafy curtain through : 
And there you can observe the Roman troops. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 5 

Alalia. 

Lead on, good Hercta, I will follow you. 

{Exeunt.) 

Enter Hannibal and Katharna. 

Hannibal. 

Katharna, you control my happiness : 

So move your father most judiciously 

To gain his full consent, and without fail. 

Discreetly mention that I value high 

His noble blood, that tells of glorious deeds. 

Which ornament a country's history : 

And, tingling in his bold descendant's veins, 

Will give sure promise of success to come. 

So when we meet at midday I shall learn 

With how much favour he regards my suit. 

My heart is in your tender keeping, love. 

Katharna. 

Believe me, dear, no keen ambassador 
Had e'er a policy that touched him more. 
In his own tenderness and interests. 
Than ours moves me. 

{Exit Hannibal : then enter Basilic 
fro7n the housed 

Katharna. 

Dear father, I'll confess 
A secret known as yet to only two. 



t 



J 



1 6 HAXXIBAL AND KATHARXA 

Basilio {laughing). 

*Twill soon be spread abroad by one of us ! 

This is my way of looking on the case : 

I hold a secret, as a sword, alone, 

Grasping the easy hilt to balance it, 

So I can turn the sabre as I will ; 

Another aiding me must seize the blade, 

And, the more pungent is the biting edge 

The louder will he howl the circumstance ; 

But if by chance to join us comes a third, 

Of needs he takes the point, which tickles him. 

Till, laughing, he discloses all he knows. 

Katharxa. 

It matters little whether it be told, 
If you approve. 

Basilic. 

'Tis something serious ; 
I thought it was the purchase of a gown 
That was desired, and I was wished to pay : 
Or promised coming of some welcome guest ; 
But now I fancy it is something more. 
What is the kernel of the mystery 
On which you wish my judgment ? 

Katharna. 

It is this : 
During some little while, as you have seen, 
Lord Hannibal has sought my company ; 



1 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1/ 

Until to-day he told me of his love, 
And prayed me quickly to prepare you, sir : 
As he proposed to wait upon you here, 
Seeking your sanction to our union. 

Basilic. 

Yet, how can Hannibal find time to wed 
Amidst campaigns of wild uncertainty. 
All seeming endless ? 

Katharna. 

Then, he bade me say : 
That from the latest information gained. 
The dawn of peace in Spain is close at hand. 

Basilic. 

To seal your happiness, I will consent 
To it. 

Katharna. 

I thank you, father, heartily. 

{She kisses /n??i.) 
And now I go to meet Lord Hannibal, 
Who will be full of joy to hear your words. 

(Basilic re-enters the house. Exit Katharna.) 



1 8 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Scene III. 

A forest mar the Carthaginian camp in Spain. Enter 
Hamilcar and Hasdrubal. 

Hamilcar {proudly), 

I have ordained : to-morrow will be drawn, 

In battle order, all the forces ranged 

As far as eye can reach : a grand review 

In honour of our triumph o'er the foe, 

And the delivery of fair Spain at last. 

Then will I dedicate auspiciously 

My eldest son, the skilful Hannibal — 

The worthy offspring of a sire who first 

Has checked the arms of ever-conquering Rome — 

To sacrifice his life opposing her, 

And lead our troops to vanquish Italy : 

A boon I must forego through stress of years. 

At a stone altar in the centre, raised 

To mighty Baal-Hammon, shall he swear, 

With votive oaths, eternal hate of Rome, 

While I as priest will consecrate his vows. 

To you I grant a post of equal rank 

And vital import to our sovereignty : 

No less its honourable dangers loom, 

Although it is a stationary command : 

For rocky cliffs upon the battered coast 

Withstand far more of stormy buft'etings 

Than swiftly-moving barques that skim the waves. 

Your duty is to rule the rich and great 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 19 

Sea-bordered province of Emporia, 

Which still is torn by fierce civil war, 

Since Spendius and Matho raised the bands — 

In parricidal strife against our power — 

Of mercenaries who had fought for us : 

Stirring the bile of seething discontent 

Amongst the native tribes, which rose in arms, 

And still rage in rebellion unsubdued, 

Threatening to join the ready foes within. 

And by invasion overrun your realm ; 

While the wild Eastern hordes which have engulfed 

The rich Egyptian valley of the Nile, 

With appetites aroused but unappeased, 

Prepare themselves beyond our territory 

To first assail us at your new command. 

Nor is its government less weighty work 

Than to lead on the force invading Rome, 

That might be vanquished without jeopardy 

To Carthage, which would rest secure at home ; 

But if Emporia, close beyond our walls. 

Successfully defied our utmost power. 

And gained her liberty through this revolt. 

Then far and near the subject states would rise. 

While vaunting Rome might play the deadly game 

That we aim at herself in Italy, 

And send invading hosts to Africa, 

Menacing Carthage on her native soil. 

Hasdrubal [inclhiing his head respectfully). 
Your wish, sir, rules both Hannibal and me. 

{^Exit Hamilcar.) 



20 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

To-morrow is the day our father holds 
The mystic ceremony, which wull bind 
My brother's life, perhaps for evermore ; 

Such bonds would gall me little : for in heart 
I'm free to fight and wonder all my days ; 
But Hannibal, who loves so desperately. 
Longing for happiness, now Spain is saved, 
Could scarcely bear the torture of the blow. 

But then to balk Hamilcar, if resolved : 



{A pause,) 



{A pause.) 
{A pause,) 



Far sooner would I seize, with naked arms, 

A lioness in her accustomed cave. 

And drag her, roaring, from amongst her cubs ! 

{A pause.) 
I'll save him ! 

{A pause,) 

Though fate surely marked him out 
For open warfare, needing generalship 
More than the post our father gives to me. 
By breathing in his mind the art of war : 
Which makes him far excel, although a youth, 
Our captains most experienced in the field. 
His name is now a potent talisman 
That rouses soldiers to their utmost deed, 
Till valour and endurance win the day. 

{E7iter Hannibal.) 

Hasdrubal. 

O Hannibal ! I fear the news I bear 

Will grieve you much, though I must make it known : 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 21 

Our father plans to send you on at once, 
The master of his hosts, to Italy. 

Hannibal. 
At once ! 

Hasdrubal. 

Yes, dedicated by a vow — 
To-morrow pledged before the gathered troops — 
To Moloch's constant service, till the day 
When Rome is conquered, Italy subdued. 

Hannibal. 

Alas ! the knell that sounds the certain doom 

Of all my earthly happiness, which seemed 

Visions too bright for stern reality ! 

I felt as one who, dreaming, grasps a prize. 

Yet, being partly conscious that he sleeps, 

Dreads the dull hour when he must wake again, 

And it will fade, cheating his eager view ; 

Though treasured as a soothing memory, 

A sweet remembrance joined with deep regret. 

Indelible for ever ! 

Hasdrubal. 

I conceived 
A hastily formed plan to meet the need. 
If we enlist our father's sympathy : 
That I should take the vow at Moloch's shrine 
Instead of you to-morrow, and your part 
Would be to save Emporia from the grip 



22 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Of deadly foes and demon anarchists — 
The duty which our father wills to me. 
A lull would come, Emporia's peace restored, 
When you might gain domestic happiness. 
So much desired. 

Hannibal { gloomily). 

Brother, my thanks to you : 
Alas ! it cannot be : the fates are stern. 
For how could Hannibal place selfish aims 
Before his duty to his native land. 
His father, and the gods ? If a mishap 
Should meet the army in the snow-clad Alps, 
Or in its conflicts with the hardy foes 
Who dwell in countries on the destined route, 
Or in the deadly shock of arms with Rome, 
Carthage might curse my recreant name and say : 
The blame is Hannibal's, who in the hour 
Of urgent need has failed his country's cause ! 

Hasdrubal. 

Then, brother, as you will, so let it be. 

{^Exit Hasdrubal : then enter Katharna.) 

Hannibal [aside). 
She comes : how can I break the mournful news ? 

Katharna. 

Ah, Hannibal ! it is not yet the hour 

We fixed upon ; nor would the lagging sands 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 23 

Run faster for my chiding : so I thought 

To be the first to come, but you are here ! 

I feared you might have gone on urgent work, 

Caused by the movements of the Roman force 

Which crossed the stream : for so the peasants say. 

I heard them as I came discussing it. 

(Hannibal kisses her hand with tender respect. 
She observes his gloomy looks?) 

Oh, say what news ? 

Hannibal. 

My love, the sunny light 
Of your bright face would cheer the darkest day ! 
But I desire to tell you of a fact 
Concerning both of us, and seek advice. 
Which you will give so as to guide my steps 
With honour in the path of rectitude. 
The Roman troops are now in full retreat : 
And on the concentration of our force. 
My father bids that I should lead his host 
To Italy, and thus our union 
Of needs must be postponed until the day 
When I return here. 

Katharna {coaxing ly). 

Not till you return. 
Come, come, you jest ; or, now I guess the cause : 

{Pettishly.) 
Some fairer face, with brighter eyes than mine. 



24 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal. 

I am in earnest, and my words are true : 
Alas, my love, I would 'twere otherwise ! 
And of your charms no rivals could be found. 
Throughout broad Spain, or on my native coasts 
Of Carthage. 

Katharna. 

Hannibal, I pray forgive 
My foolish jealousy ; but tell me, dear. 
How can we shun this great catastrophe ? 

Hannibal {hesitating). 

The destined ruler of Emporia, 

My brother, has already offered me 

To change our posts : our father's sanction given. 

The marriage then might still be possible, 

And wedded life amid the cares of rule 

Would solace, soothe, and strengthen 



Katharna. 



Then accept 



Pray do this, Hannibal, and rescue me, 

Ere yet too late, from terrible despair ! 

Now reason with me, love, upon the cause : 

Say, does the dove that pleads, and not in vain. 

Forget his wooing in some distant flight, 

Or taste the joys his melody has won ? 

How would you bear the absence without words 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 2$ 

Of tenderness : or might you soon forget ? 
And though I feel that to no other voice 
My heart could beat responsively with love, 
Would you still hold my troth firm-pledged as now ! 

{A pause.) 
Or death's autumnal blight delay to strike 
From off the parent bough neglected fruit 
Which lacked too long the gardener's fostering care ? 
True instinct whispers me, if once you go 
On such a distant arduous enterprise, 
That we shall never chance to meet again. 
While yet the warmly flowing tide of youth 
Invites to present happiness. 

Hannibal. 

My love, 
Then I must yield ; for I have not the power 
To strive against your wish, nor to deny 
The pleadings of my heart. Now, dearest, wear 
The ring I give you as a constant pledge 
Of my unchanging love, until you lead 
Into "a closer, willing servitude 
Your firm, devoted slave. 

i^He places a ring on her finger : she smiles.) 

Katharna. 

A lovely gem 
Which I shall ever prize. I thank you much. 
Though little needs my burning heart a breeze 
To fan its ardent flame. My memory 



26 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Will never chafe beneath its silken chains, 
But ever dwell on you in tenderness. 
When, as you wished, I told my father all. 
Seeking approval of our marriage vows, 
He gladly gave consent to welcome you ! 

Hannibal. 

What happiness : I live for you alone ! 
See now, Hamilcar comes. 

Katharna. 

Love, I will go : 
So then bespeak your father's grace and aid ; 
For if he deems our marriage suitable, 
How could belong condemn to live apart 
Those whom he judges fit for unity ? 

Hannibal. 

Then let us meet again at eventide. 
Upon the threshold of your father's home. 
Just at the hour the trumpets sound to mark 
The setting of the watch. Hamilcar's words 
I then will bear you : and we will discuss 
Our future plans. 

Katharna. 

Yes, dear, let it be so. 
{Exit Katharna : then enter Hamilcar.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 2^ 

Hannibal. 

Father, I would converse with you awhile, 
If of your goodness you will hear me. 

Hamilcar. 

Yes: 
Speak on, my son : no better chance appears 
For conversation. 

Hannibal. 

Then I ask a boon. 
Since childhood I have served in every war : 
And as you have commanded, I obeyed. 
But now I would request my first reward : 
Hasdrubal has unfolded your designs 
For both our future enterprises, sir. 
Permit that we exchange, for he consents ; 
Each war bears equal promise of renown : 
Though from the nature of the services. 
His being a more sedentary command, 
I fain would choose it for a year or two. 
That I might woo a lady in the space ; 
But when that time is past command again 
And send me where you will. 

Hamilcar. 

I grant your wish : 
Though fiery Moloch in his angry mood, 
Aroused by losing thus his votary, 
May hinder all your plans whate'er they be. 



28 HANXIBAL AND KATHARXA 

E'en at your birth I promised you should live 
For his high favour : and I named you then. 
In token of my wish, ^' The Grace of Baal." 

Hannibal. 
The risk is mine. Accept my warmest thanks : 
Your words have opened Heaven's gates to me ! 
I would consult you further on this theme 
Of utmost moment : and entreat no less 
Than for your weighty sanction to be given 
That I may wed. 

Hamilcar. 

With whom ? 

Hannibal. 

Katharna, sir : 
A lady of the noblest blood in Spain, 
Although her family, impoverished 
Through clannish feuds, lives in a homely way. 
You saw her with her father at the sports 
And races of our troops, but recently : 
Then, while you questioned him to learn the drift 
Of Spanish native feeling on the war, 
I held communion with her close at hand ; 
And now I feel my happiness depends 
Upon an early union with her, sir. 

Hamilcar. 
I marked you well I A charming girl, no doubt. 
'Tis our hot blood that leads to sudden love, 
With great capacity for suffering ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 29 

Yet I would not exchange a single drop 

For all the watery fluids filtering 

Through the ascetic's cold and fish-like frame ! 

{Aside.) 
What answer shall I give to his request, 
Without offence, yet charged with worldly lore ? 
If I forbid him, he'll consider me 
The harshest parent in the universe ; 
Yet if I grant it, soon a day may come 
When he will wish I had denied it him. 
Preserving him unfettered from the bond. 
And able to pursue his destiny. 

{Aloud.) 
My son, it is a serious step indeed 
That ends your freedom. Youth loves liberty. 
So ponder on it well : then if your wish 
Remains unchanged, I will consider it ; 
But I had hoped your choice might fall at home. 
And that you would have sought to wed, at least, 
With a princess of Africa, or else 
The daughter of some powerful family 
In Carthage. 

Hannibal. 

I have weighed it thoroughly ; 
Nor do I hesitate, sir. 

Hamilcar. 

Well, my son, 
Katharna has consented, I presume : 
And do you say Basilio has approved 
His daughter's marriage ? 



30 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal. 

Yes. She promised me. 
And has disclosed all to her father, sir, 
This morning, saying I would come ere long 
To seek his blessing if you gave me yours ; 
Basilio seemed well pleased and satisfied. 



{Aside.) 

{AlONd.) 



I know what argument will move him most ! 

By charms of disposition, face, and form 
She has enslaved my heart and judgment, too ; 
Being of a mould where nature promises 
To generously present a warrior sire 
With sturdy offspring suitable for war ! 

Hamilcar. 

Then I consent, and trust your union 

May bring the happiness you have well earned 

By long and arduous service in the field. 

So, if you have the promised lusty son, 

Teach him, as I taught you, to vanquish Rome. 

Instruct him in the arts of government, 

That haply he may live to rule the world ! 

Hannibal. 

I owe much gratitude for your assent, 
And highly prize your liberal praise of me. 
However poor my merits. 

(^.a:// Hamilcar.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 3 1 

Haste the hour 
That leads me back to dear Katharna's charms : 
What joy will then be hers to hear the news, 
That I have gained my father's full consent ! 

[A pause.) 
How she is altered since at first we met : 
A budding flower then, and now full-blown ; 
A tender girl changed to a stately dame. 
Love is the sun that ripens womanhood ! 
Well, I will hasten on the marriage-day : 
At least two years of happiness are ours ; 
Then if I leave her for the distant wars, 
Their memory will prove a talisman 
Amid the darkness of adversity ; 
And, like a beacon shining through the night. 
Will guide and cheer me to success at last. 

{£xtr) 

Scene IV. 

Basilio's homestead. Hercta dusting a table under a 
tree. Enter Muthumbal, passing along a road at 
the back of the scene : he looks round and nods to 
Hercta, but moves on doubtfully. 

Hercta. 

There's no one here, Muthumbal : don't be shy ! 

(Muthumbal, who had almost passed out of sight ^ 
turns smiling^ and approaches Hercta.) 



32 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

MUTHUMBAL. 

My love, you see I have not failed to come, 
As promised. 

Hercta. 

I am very glad, indeed : 
Welcome, my dear ! I said we are alone. 

{Looks over her shoulder^ 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Then I may venture to 

[He put his ar7)i roiuid Hercta's luaist a?id, draw- 
i?ig her ge?iily towards him ^ kisses her cheek!) 

Hercta [coyl}^. 

I meant — not that. 

MUTHUMBAL. 

'Tis none the worse for coming without thought : 
And so I find it. 

Hercta [poutifig). 

Oh, you naughty boy ! 
I hope naught else may happen unawares — 

Muthumbal. 

Did time permit and opportunity — 

Hercta {averting her face for a 7no?nent). 
Muthumbal, tell me why you looked so sad 
When first you passed the gable ? 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 33 

MuTHUMBAL {seriously). 

Well, my dear : 
Because the gloomy thought occurred to me, 
That I might ne*er again behold this scene, 
Rendered so happy by our meetings. 



Hercta. 



MUTHUMBAL. 



Why? 



The Roman army has abandoned Spain ; 
Our troops will not pursue till gathered here. 
As lions crouch before they make their spring 
To deal a distant blow. But I return, 
Starting to-morrow in the evening. 
Charged with the secret archives' custody 
Of the late war in Spain, now haply o'er. 
To lodge them safe in Carthage. Then I think 
My military work is done at last ; 
Unless the Elder's Council should decree 
That I must join some other armament : 

[Draiving himself up. ^ 
Valuing my services already given. 
Which, as you know, are neither small nor few ; 
But otherwise I must pursue my trade. 
As a civilian scribe, in Carthage fixed : 
Nor would my humble means enable me 
To seek new wanderings round the Punic world. 
Now, dear, 1 pray excuse my hurriedness. 



34 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hercta, 'tis time that I should take my leave, 
As business presses much : while there is light. 
I pray you walk with me a little way 
Towards the camp, that our last interview 
May be the longer. 

Hercta. 

I half guessed your news. 
'Tis sad indeed, Muthumbal, to part thus : 
But can we find no remedy ? 

Muthumbal. 

We'll try ; 
Let us discuss it, dear, upon the way : 
Your woman's wit is quicker far than mine. 

{Exeunt ; then e?iter three Roman soldiers^ under 
conwiafid ^/ Aulus.) 

AULUS. 

"Halt," men, and "Front!" Now, Gavius, keep the 

ranks : 
Nor roll away upon the grassy slope 
Like a round mass of loosened stone. 

( Gavius had lou?iged on a couple of yards after 
the command to halt. ) 

Gavius {aside, sneering). 

Too bad : 
He drives us up and down with haughty tones, 
As though he were a real corporal. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 35 

And not a private soldier in the ranks, 
Of equal grade with us, but greater age ; 
Who, chancing to be somewhat sooner born 
(Through neither skill nor merit of his own). 
Has consequently served a longer time 
Than most of us who go along with him, 
And so is placed in charge of the patrol. 
Merely a jack-in-office ! 

( Gavius returns sulkily to his place in the ranks, ) 

AULUS. 

Listen, men : 
Our mission is accomplished : to observe 
The cross-roads near this homestead, and to note 
If there be any sign of marching troops. 
Sent by our crafty Carthaginian foe. 
To intercept our forces at the ford ; 
There is no trace of any movement here. 
So now the orders bid us start in haste. 
To follow all our army in retreat. 

Gavius {sneering ly). 

Then may we, Aulus, ere returning home, 
Since wines are generous here and women fair. 
Provide ourselves with something suitable 
Or pretty, as a present for our friends ? 

{Speaking more earnestly?^ 
We soldiers grumble not to leave the spoil. 
To join in swift attacks and deadly strife ; 
Yet, as we now march back to Italy, 



* 



36 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

{Speakhtg with warmth,) 
Would it not be a pleasing thing to take 
Some charming dark-eyed Spanish maid ? To show 
How the Iberian sun can tinge the peach 
With blushing bloom, and ripen ruddy fruit 
Fit for the rosy god ! 

AuLUS {aside). 

Pernicious words : 
Breathed by a ready reckless mutineer, 
iV cunning leader in the devil's cause, 
Into young ears where they might fructify. 
Now, after such a bid of bribery, 
The men might disobey a plain command 
To turn and leave the plunder offered them ; 
rU win their reason by good arguments. 
And make a semblance of consulting them : 
At least one vote is sure. 

{Aloud,) 
Soldiers, attend ! 
'Tis true were this some hostile foreign land — 
Not friendly, neutral Spain, which still we hope 
Some day to rescue from the Punic grasp — 
Then custom would permit to take the spoil ; 
But here we should refrain though holding power, 
Our only duty is to gather news. 
Not to disturb the peaceful Spaniard's home. 
Further, I hold our honour and good name 
In some sort pledged ; although we now retire 
Beyond the reach of an avenging arm. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 37 

The peasants else might raise to punish us : 
Guerilla warfare, profitless and dread. 
I put it to the vote. How say you, men, 
That we should spare or take ! 

First Soldier. 

I say : *^ We spare." 
Second Soldier. 
I hold that Gavius has said well : '^ We take." 

Aulus. 

Then two wish either course ; so as the chief, 
I must decide it by a casting vote : 
** We spare." And now let us away. 

Gavius {aside). 

A fraud ! 

{Exeunt^ marching. Then enter from the house 
K\.k.\AK followed by Hercta ; they prepare the 
table tender a tree for the repast^ Hercta bring- 
ing out dishes and plates^ while Alalia arranges 
them. Enter from the house Basil 10.) 

Basilic {peevishly). 

Already it is past the dinner liour, 
To-day, 



38 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Alalia. 

Pray, father, to excuse us still, 
Because Katharna has not yet returned 
From meeting my Lord Hannibal at noon, 
I trust, indeed, she will not be delayed ; 
It gives me cause for serious doubt and dread 
When she is absent in such troublesome times : 
Though now the Roman troops have crossed the stream, 
Apparently intent on marching north, 
I hope peace is restored and she is safe. 

Basilic {absently). 

A husband worthy of the purest blood 

Of ancient Spain, which flows within our veins : 

Though Fortune bids us live most frugally. 

Nor dwell in castles suited to the rich. 

And yet. Alalia, I tell you true : 

All the high lineage of the Suffete's son. 

With his great power and wealth, were naught to me, 

Did I not know his suit is born of love. 

And that Katharna's happiness depends 

Upon their union, which may heaven bless ! 

But my old limbs already are fatigued. 

So I will rest within until she comes. 

(Basilic enters the house.) 

{Enter Gavius, through some shrubbery^ without 
seeing Alalia and Hercta.) 



« 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 39 

Gavius [^soliloquises). 

Hah, my good Aulus ! So you thought, indeed, 
To have your way and trick me by the vote. 
Rather than risk a downright mutiny. It seems 
You failed to turn me from my fixed resolve ; 
For if by chance some men decline their share 
Of what the gracious gods bestow as spoil 
Upon the toilers in a hard campaign, 
The more remains for others, that is all. 
Had you not picked a quarrel with me first. 
For slouching, as you dared to term my gait, 
I would have done your bidding readily ; 
But that is past, and I am freed from you. 
Which of us is most independent now ? 
Alone, I guide my party at my will. 
But you must join the host, and yield command 
Of the small guard o'er which you lorded it. 
Should I be guided by a pedant's wish ? 
No. First I will enjoy each luxury. 
Then find my own way back to Italy, 
As military rules are so severe. 

(^He ^^^i* Alalia, tvho^ observing the freedom of 
his look and manner ^ shrinks back.) 

Ye gods ! I spoke prophetically, too : 
Phrasing of ripened beauty's coloured cheek : 
For, if the treacherous wine deceives me not. 
Behold the dainty dame I dreamed about ! 

{He reels slightly.) 
Yes, she shall be my lovely prize of war. 



40 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

{To Alalia.) 
Come, dear, along with me to Rome ! 

Alalia. 

Help! help! 

(Alalia endeavours to escape. Gavius seizes and is 
dragging her away : she sh?'ieks and faints. 
Basilio, from the house, and Hercta, rush 
foriuard to rescue her. Basilio raises his stick 
ill both ha?ids to strike Gavius on the head. 
Gavius draws his sword and runs Basilic 
through, killi7ig hi?n. Hercta flies, Gavius 
bears away Alalia. After a long pause, enter 
Katharna.) 

Katharxa. 

I bring good news for those who ever join 
In sympathy with me. 

{^She shrieks on seei?ig her father s body : at the same 
moment Hercta runs out from behind the 
house.) 

My father ! Help ! 
O heaven ! Say, Hercta, what means this ? 

(Katharna hurries to her father : kneels beside him : 
exami?ies his face, his eyes, and looks to see 
7uhether he breathes : feels his forehead, hand, 
and pulse at the wrist ^ 

Hercta. 

Alas ! 
There came a Roman soldier flushed with wine. 
And seized your sister who prepared the meal : 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 4I 

She struggled hard, shrieking aloud for aid ; 
Your father quickly issued from the house 
And strove to save her ; but the man, enraged, 
Clutched at his sword and struck Basilio dead, 
Then bore away Alalia in a swoon. 
I fled in fear, but followed on the hill 
Until I saw him wade across the ford ; 
Then having safely gained the further bank. 
He mingled with the crowd of baggage men 
And motley followers. 

Katharna. 

Oh, alas the day ! 
My father dead : Alalia lost ! Then I 



{She draws a dagger, raises it aloft, and is on the 
point of killing herself : then lowers it.) 

Not so : fools plunge the weapons in their breasts, 
The wise keep for their foes. 

{She replaces the dagger in her dress. Still on her 
knees she bends over her fathe7'''s face ^ 

I must be calm. 
Speak to me, father, but a word again ! 
He moves ! Ah, no ; it was the spirit shade 
Hovering an instant o'er its late abode ! 
Marking its presence by the quivering nerve, 
As the soft zephyr touches tranquil pools. 
Stirring the surface from its lifelessness. 



{She weeps.) 



How can I e'er repay you for your love, 



42 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Which dowered me with every happiness 
That you could grant since I was yet a child ? 
Yes, I was to be married soon, but now 
Joy seems a treason to your memory. 

{^She springs to her feet^ and paces backwards and 
forwards^ with her hands clenched?) 

I vow to heaven to dedicate my life, 
In filial duty, to obtain revenge : 
Although it costs, as earthly sacrifice, 
■Sly dearest hopes, my love and happiness. 
Immortal gods, behold my father's wrongs : 
Record these solemn words, and grant me aid 
To give them meaning ! 

{^She speaks hurriedly?) 

Hercta, I must go 
Immediately ! But you shall stay behind 
Until the coming of Lord Hannibal, 
Who presently will seek me as arranged. 
Tell him of the catastrophe, but say. 
That as I followed to the river's brink. 
Striving to save my sister from the fiend. 
He turned and slew me : then the rushing waves 
Swallowed me in their depths ; but as I fell 
I called to you, ''Tell Hannibal of this," 
And say I prayed him seek revenge for me. 

{^She speaks deliberately?) 
Then having fired him thus, join me at once 
Beside the temple ; bring sure-footed mules, 
With saddle-bags containing simple food. 
That we may fly beyond the reach of search. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 43 

{She raises her voice ^ 
So the balked lion in his agony 
Will wreak on Rome dread vengeance for this deed ! 

{Exit Katharna.) 

Hercta. 

Alas ! my master dead, under whose roof 
I ever was retained with kindliness ; 
Here I have passed a peaceful happy life, 
Since left an orphan by the civil wars. 
Of my dear mistresses yet one remains. 
And so has greater claims upon my love. 
Obedience, and devotion to her cause, 
By which I might repay a trifling share 
Of the great debt of endless gratitude 
I owe herself and all her family. 
Were it not better that Lord Hannibal 
Should know the truth at once, and rescue her 
From gloomy unprotected wanderings : 
Meeting us at the fane, it would appear 
As if kind fate had sent him to her aid ! 
It might be so, and yet no choice remains : 
I must obey ; it is my only course 
To follow out her wishes for the time ; 
For it would be a cruel shame on me 
To take her orders and betray the trust ; 
But I will plead to her while not too late, 
To turn her mind from all her misery. 
Seeking her solace in a husband's love 
And happiness. 

{Enter Hannibal.) 



i 



44 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal {aside). 

Some evil fate is here ! 

(Aloud.) 
What horror, Hercta ! Is Basilio dead, 
Or merely swooning ? 

Hercta. 

Dead, I fear, my lord ; 
Alas ! if you had only chanced to come 
Just one short hour ago, all had been well : 

But now 

{SAe weeps^ 

Hannibal. 

How did this tragedy occur ? 

Hercta. 

A Roman soldier, of a brutal mien. 

Rushed from the wood and seized my mistress, first 

Alalia, who cried aloud for help, 

At which my master hurried to her aid ; 

But the fierce Roman slew him with his sword, 

And dragged his prize towards the river-bank. 

My mistress, dear Katharna, then arrived. 

And speeding after them most recklessly. 

She overtook the robber at the ford ; 

(A pause. ) 
Turning, he stabbed and hurled her in the stream ! 

(Hercta weeps?) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 45 \\ 

Hannibal. 

O heaven, help me ! 

Hercta. 

She was swept away, 
Till, sinking, she called loud to me who watched, 
To pray you be revenged for her on Rome ! 

(Hercta weeps.) 

Hannibal. 

Ye gods ! there is no need to ask of me 
To seek the vengeance fury bids me have ! 
From this hour forth I give my life to it. 
To-morrow morning, as my father wished. 
At Moloch's altar I will take the vow 
That binds me to his service evermore ! 

{He speaks hurriedly to Hercta.) 

Now haste and lead me to the very spot 

Near which you saw the lady disappear ; 

For often currents cast upon the shores. 

Or strand amid the shallows of the stream. 

One fallen in the river far above ; 

And if by chance this was the case with her. 

We may not find her, even now, too late : 

The spirit yet might be recalled to life ; 

As chance stays but an instant and is gone 

For ever from our grasp. Haste, haste, lead on ! 

{Exeunt.) 



46 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



Scene V. 

Before a Ruined Temple. Enter Katharna and 
Hercta, meeting. 

Hercta. 

Madam, the mules stand tethered at the gate, 
With preparations, as you ordered me. 
Completed. 

Katharna. 

Hercta, it is well, so far : 
But I have waited long and anxiously 
To learn the progress of the desperate plan 
With which I charged you. 

Hercta. 

Madam, it proceeds 
By leaps and bounds. 

{Aside) 

Indeed, I fear, too well ! 

{Aloud.) 
Although you bade me do a painful deed, 
E'en if necessity demanded it. 
Yet I have done all you instructed me. 
Within my power. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 47 

Katharna. 
How did he bear the news ? 



Hercta. 

Lord Hannibal was seized by a fierce calm : 
His mien was terrible, his words were few. 

Katharna. 

Alas ! So strong men suffer more than those 
Who, weak in fibre, shriek and tear their hair. 
What did he do and say ? 

Hercta. 

My story heard, 
He hurried to the river, searched the banks 
For miles below, in hopes of finding you. 
Cast by some friendly current on the shore : 
Then, in despair, gave up the hopeless task ; 
But, before leaving, he declared to me 
That at the dawn to-morrow he would vow 
Sealing his life to Moloch's services. 

He leads the army soon to Italy. 

Katharna. 

War is a hero's trade and suits him well ; 
And yet, alas, that he should suffer thus : 
He is so noble, kind, and generous ! 



[A pause.) 



« 



48 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hercta {aside). 

Now is the moment ; I may rescue her ! 

{Aloud.) 
I pray you, madam, pause while not too late 
To end his cruel tortures and your own. 
Permit me to return to him at once, 
Saying that grief for your dear father's death 
Had caused your flight, but you have now returned, 
And wish to see him ere the sun be set. 
As to the tale I told him — 



He shall think. 
That, being anxious to conceal your flight, 
I had invented it ; then, if enraged, 
He seeks to punish me for trifling thus — 
I'm swift and can elude him. 



Katharna. 

Hercta, no. 
I am most grateful for your sympathy ; 
But what you have proposed in kindliness 
Cannot be carried out. I must not change, 
And will not even pause or hesitate. 
I know full well, as your report has shown, 
He loves me truly as I worship him : 
That is a furnace fit to forge the blade ! 
Though misery must await both him and me, 
Yet from the depth of all our suffering 



{A pause.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 49 

Will rise, high-tempered, strong, a fiery sword, 
Which he shall wield to be revenged on Rome. 

{A pause^ in the midst of which Katharna bursts 
into tears^ and, covering her face with one hand, 
extends the other to Hercta, who takes it.) 

Your plan's impossible, my dear : let's go. 

{Exeunt.) 



Scene VI. 

In front of the Carthaginian camp. The army formed 
in order of battle ; in the centre is a stone altar, 
decked with garlands of flowers. On the right of 
the altar stands Hamilcar ; and on his right the 
staff are drawn up, including Gisco, Maharbal, 
and MuTHUMBAL, holding a roll of papyrus and a 
reedpen, and having a black ink-bottle suspended to 
the front of his girdle. In front of the altar stands 
Magdassan. At the back of the scene Hamilcar's 
escort and trumpeters form a line. 

Magdassan {to Hamilcar). 

My lord, it is a valued privilege. 

Devolving upon me, to speak to-day 

As second in command. I humbly bear, 

From this great Carthaginian host arrayed. 

To you its chief and Suffete, world-renowned : 



50 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Assurance of our earnest gratitude 
For skilfully victorious guidance past, 
Our firm devotion present and to come. 
While we deplore the fulness of the years 
Which hinders you from leading us again 
When soon we start upon the road to Rome, 
We are prepared to witness at this hour 
The pious dedication of your son 
Hasdrubal at the ever-sacred shrine 
Of mighty Molock, here with honour raised, 
To fight till Rome yields to him. We receive 
Obediently, with trust, the chief you give, 
To guide us onward in the arduous strife. 
Most earnestly we pray the fiery god 
To bid him rise triumphant o'er his foes ; 
That we may overcome all obstacles. 
Gigantic difficulties, hardships, which 
Beset the narrow frozen Alpine paths. 
Over the dizzy heights amid the clouds. 
Until at length we reach the fertile plains 
Upon the distant sunny borderland 
Of Italy. 

Hamilcar. 

Magdassan, what could swell — 
More than the choice of you as messenger, 
A famous and a favoured general — 
The honour which the army does to me, 
In its kind homage to an aged chief. 
Who ever prized the men as glorious sons ? 
Express to them my deepest gratitude 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 5 1 

For all their words of duty and of love. 

They are the valiant troops whom Carthage thanks, 

With glowing pride, for bravely-rescued Spain, 

A brilliant jewel in her diadem. 

And now to form a base from which to strike 

A deadly blow against the flank of Rome. 

But an old lion must at length repose. 

And die at last of age, though spared by death. 

Encountered long on hard-contested fields ; 

Then must the lion's brood assume his place. 

For which I dedicate a son to-day : 

Would that it were my first-born, as the rite 

Demands when offering to our chosen gods ; 

But I have felt constrained to grant his prayer, 

Bearing in mind his arduous services, 

And named him ruler of Emporia 

To serve an urgent matter of the heart, 

Which binds with strongest bonds a warrior. 

When honour and stern duty set him free. 

For not less arduous is his chosen post : 

And yet its nature will enable him 

To sip the honey and cull the flowers 

Of married bliss. 

(Hamilcar makes a sign to Hasdrubal, a7id 
they draw nearer to the altar?) 

Bear witness, O ye gods ! 
That now in presence of this mighty host, 
I dedicate to Moloch's services. 
My son 



52 hannibal'^and katharna 

MuTHUMBAL (aside). 

Who's this in haste approaching us ? 

{Addressing Hamilcar.) 

Hold, sir ! Nor deem my conduct impious, 
That I should interrupt the sacred rite ! 
See, yonder comes Lord Hannibal himself ! 

{Aside.) 

Though scarce himself, I fear, to judge his look. 

{Enter Hannibal, pale and dishevelled.) 

Hannibal. 

I, Hannibal, your eldest son, have come 

To claim my destined vow in hate of Rome. 

It was not fitting, when I thought to place 

My selfish aims before the country's cause ; 

The august god, whose service I denied, 

Reached forth his mighty arm and crushed my hopes. 

{He presses his hands to his face i?i anguish^ 
then recovers composure^ 

Pray ask no more, 

(Hasdrubal makes way for Hannibal 
beside the altar. ) 



To conquer fate ! 



Hasdrubal. 
O Hannibal, you come 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 53 

Hamilcar. 

Let it be so, my sons : 
The gods decree in spite of human will ! 

[A sunbeam falls on the ground before the altar ^ 

Magdassan. 

Auspicious sign ! Look how the sun bursts forth, 
Which hid till now his burnished face close-wrapped 
Behind a sable cloak of thunder-clouds, 
Embroidered with a fringe of golden light, 
A token of the glory they concealed. 

( The sunbeam moves to the altar ^ envelops it, 
and then remains stationary^ 
The ray moves to the altar ! See the light 
Of Baal's countenance, which views our gift, 
And smiles acceptance of the offering ! 

{^All present raise their hands towards the 
altar in pious adoration,^ 

[Curtain!) 



A 



i 



ACT II. 

Scene I. 

Hannibal's tent in f^^ont of the Carthagi?iian camp^ on high 
grou7id overlookifig the Trebia, which flows diagonally 
across the distant scenery j beyo7id the riveY appears the 
Roman camp. Hannibal and Gisco are standing 
before the tent. 

Hannibal. 

Gisco, now that a leisure hour has come, 
Pray signal that the prisoners may attend, 
And make my present orders known to them. 
First, those who wish may freely join our ranks 
To share the plundering of Italy. 
The rest in single combat, man to man. 
As chosen by the plan of casting lots. 
May fight, if they should wish to try their fate. 
To the brave warriors grant these worthy terms ; 
The conquerors win both freedom and their arms. 
The vanquished will be saved by certain death 
From pining longer in captivity. 
To this they will most readily agree ; 
Then cry : *' Ye soldiers of the Punic host, 
As we are now invading Italy, 

54 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 55 

Your fate is what the prisoners gladly sought : 

Death frees you if you fail, while if you win, 

You gain life, triumphs, and more spoil than they ! *' 

So, Gisco, let stout combats such as these 

Be fought before the camp of every column, 

For bright examples. 

Gisco. 
Certainly, my lord. 



It shall be done. 



Hannibal. 



Then since the Roman troops 
Have reached the fords to-night, as if they wished 
To cross the stream at dawn and seize the road 
Of our retreat to Spain, by which we came : 
Though we might now fall back and save the line 
Which our position here must jeopardise, 
Yet I would rather stand and tempt them on, 
To crush them as they cross, or hurl them back 
Into the seething flood to perish there ; 
But- if defeated, then our host is lost, 
Having no refuge left to shelter in. 
After abandoning all certain ways 
By which we might escape in case of rout. 
What leader ever tempted Providence 
With rashness such as this ? For here it rests : 
I hold, two armies striving in the field 
Resemble swordsmen fighting on a plank 
Which bridges an abyss between two cliffs : 
For either force advances or retires, 



56 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

But neither may remove to right or left, 
Which I attempt by this manoeuvring : 
Yet I will ponder deeply over it. 
Return, I pray you, long before the dawn. 
And I will then decide anent this stroke 
By which I win or lose. 

Gtsco. 

I will, my lord. 
{Exit Gisco. Enter a Carthaginian Officer?^ 

Officer. 

Most noble master, as our guards patrolled. 

Searching a lonely track which leads from Spain, 

They seized a straggler who was journeying thence — 

A Roman soldier with a lovely dame 

Whom he termed wife, though she denied the bond. 

And craved the favour of an audience. 

Saying you knew Alalia in Spain, 

And that Katharna's sister now entreats 

You may accord the boon. 

Hannibal (aside). 

Alalia found ! 
To what tumultuous thoughts her name gives rise. 

{To the Officer.) 
'Tis well ! conduct the lady here at once. 

{Exit Officer^ who presently returns with Alalia ; 
she throws herself at Hannibal's /<?<?/ y he takes 
her hand and gently raises her.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 57 

Alalia. 

Save me, O save me, Hannibal, I pray, 
From the degraded lot in which I live. 
The drudge and mistress of a man I scorn. 
Who beats me cruelly when in his cups — 
The base deserter Gavius, who prefers 
To plunder homesteads and oppress the weak, 
Sooner than join his legion in the war ; 
He killed my father and dishonoured me. 
Tearing me from my happy peaceful home. 

(Alalia weeps,) 

Hannibal. 

Sister Alalia, remain in peace, 

For you are safe from further cruel wrongs. 

{To the Officer.) 
Bring Gavius here in fetters. 

Officer. 

Yes, my lord. 

{Exit Officer.) 

Hannibal {hesitating). 

I pray you to describe Katharna's fate. 
Although to hear it may be terrible. 

Alalia {surprised). 

The gods be praised, she was absent with you, 
When we were crushed by fortune's heavy blow ; 
It is not probable she came to harm. 



58 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal. 
Thank heaven, but 



x\lalia. 

Surely you have known of this ? 

Hannibal. 

No, for I blindly trusted Hercta's word : 
And yet her tale was false ; for it was this : — 
She saw you seized, then poor Basilio killed. 
And last, Katharna perished at the ford ; 
For there she overtook your ravisher 
In her bold efforts to recover you. 

Alalia. 

No, 'twas not true, but as I said before. 
Although I fainted when my father fell 
And Gavius bore me off, my sense returned 
Before we reached the ford to cross the stream ; 
Indeed we were alone until we joined 
The crowd of stragglers on the further bank, 
Where many lingered after wading there. 
Resting before they climbed the steep ascent 
Above them. 

Hannibal {eagerly). 

Tell me where Katharna dwells : 
For I will send a messenger to Spain, 
With tidings of your rescue by my troops. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA $9 

Alalia. 

Alas, I do not know her residence, 

Since I was led away. I hoped indeed 

You would have brought the welcome news to me 

That she was safe. 

Hannibal {mournfully). 

Katharna disappeared : 
I have not seen her since the tragedy — 
Basilio's death and your captivity : 
Nor have I gathered any news of her ; 
And such accounts as Hercta rendered me. 
Whatever be the cause, were not the truth, 
As proved by your descriptions. 

Alalia. 

Very strange ! 
For I have known and trusted Hercta long, 
As one who always proved herself to be 
Of sure veracity and faithfulness. 
I can but deem it most improbable 
That she should have misled you purposely. 
Without some weighty motive, or the wish 

{She pauses.) 
Hannibal {quickly). 
Whose wish ? Katharna's ? 



6o HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Alalia {after a pause). 

Yes. 

Hannibal. 

Then why ? 

Alalia. 

Perhaps — 
{^She pauses?) 
Hannibal. 

I hold she should have trusted me at least, 
Telling plain truth, and how her duty urged 
For some delay, or bade her break with me, 
And not have doomed me in my ignorance 
To suffer endless misery. 

Alalia. 

Perhaps 
She could not trust herself, if you should plead 
In the warm influence of an interview : 
Having allies strong, numerous, subtle, bold, 
Within her heart and mind to give you aid 
Against the course that filial piety 
Appeared to indicate. 

Hannibal. 

That may be so ; 
She might have bidden Hercta tell the truth. 
And yet have fled. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 6 1 

Alalia. 

You would have sought for her 
With all your great resource and energy, 
Rendering escape almost impossible ; 
Once found, how could she have withstood your will ? 
Surely her resolution would have failed. 

{Re-enter the Officer preceding Gavius, who is escorted 
by a Carthaginian soldier^ armed with a spear 
in his hand and a dagger in his belt j a Corporal 
follows thon^ in command of the prisoner and 
escort. Gavius is bare-headed and unarmed j 
his wrists are chained together in front of him.) 

Hannibal {to Alalia). 

Is this the man who scattered misery, 

In wanton glee, midst innocence and peace ? 

Alalia. 
Gavius it is, who has destroyed our house ! 

Hannibal {to the Officer), 
Then let him die : away with him at once ! 

Gavius. 
She has betrayed me : let her perish too ! 



T 



62 HANMBAL AND KATHARNA 

{7m sf^ of his hommd wrists^ Gattus snatches tki 
dagger from Ike belt of the Carthagimam sol£er^ 
amd^ mahhig a refid step forward^ stabs Alaua, 
who faUs baeh imto Haxxibal's anms. Gaitius 
is seised hj the Corporal amd Soldier, disarmud, 
amd dragged oat for cxcci^fwiC) 

Haxxibal {to the OJUer). 
Quick ! Br.ng ^ : : _ : . :rom yonder tent. 

At 4TTA. 

Idle; 
O Hannibal, it will be over soon. 
And for the best. 

(77 thetemt^amd 

' Aullia 



Haxxibal. 

The coward left no hope. 
I greatly grieve I did not caution you 
In time to save you from approaching him. 
\^lio would hare thought, if not the fiend himself, 
A prisoner guarded, bound, and quite unarmed. 
Could strike the treacherous blow ! 

{Apaase'S 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 63 

Alalia, dear, 
Now pausing on the threshold of the world, 
Ere passing to the mystic land of shades, 
With your prophetic vision clear and bright. 
Say why Katharna hid her fate from me ? 

Alalia. 

Perhaps to guide you on to conquer Rome, 
And so avenge her father's death and me ; 
But (a pause) never doubt (a pause) Katharna's love for 

you. 
So, when at last you meet her happily. 
As much I hope you will, and all is well. 
While a bright future shines before you both. 
Then speak to her of poor Alalia's death. 
And say affection bound me to the last 
In the fond memory of our sisterhood. 

(Alalia dies?) 

{^After a pause ^ Hannibal moves away a little^ 
and beckons : re-enter the Officer^ Corporal^ and 



Soldier?) 



Hannibal. 



Her gentle soul has fled : now bear her forth. 
We'll bury her at dawn where violets bloom. 

{^Exeunt the Officer^ Corporal^ and Soldier^ carrying 
the couch on which lies the body ^/Alalia. The 
light has gradually failed^ and it now becomes 
dusk?) 



64 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal {soliloquises). 

See, the light fades, and kindly nature shrouds 

The victim of a cruel tragedy. 

Now I owe duty to my gallant troops, 

My country, Carthage, and the fiery god : 

So I must sleep if that be possible, 

And gain new vigour for to-morrow's strife. 

I will lie down at once within the tent, 

Perhaps to rest, but how to sleep indeed, 

When every chord of tender passion thrills, 

Roused by Katharna's memory in my soul. 

And sweet Alalia's death ? But I must try. 

(Hannibal ejiters the tent and lies upon a coiich^ 
wit/ii?i vieii\ wrapped in a cloak. It becomes 
dark : Hannibal sleeps and dreams. Enter a 
vision of Katharna, pale and calni^ and the 
fnoonlight falls on her.) 

Vision of Katharna. 

O Hannibal ! I know your troubled thoughts : 
Behold these signs and read. 

{The vision of Katahrna makes a zuave of the 
ha?id, a?id, as through a transparency^ there 
appears a town in rui?is on one side^ and the 
forest cast doiun on the other j a gigantic serpent 
7noves between them with its head raised high in 
the air^ the remainder of its body being composed 
of the long 7uindi?ig column formed by an army on 
the 7?iarch.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 65 

This scene portends 
The devastation of fair Italy, 
Which you shall soon achieve by force of arms : 
Go boldly onwards ; never look again 
Upon the road to Spain. 

( The allegorical view vanishes^ and the vision of 
Katharn A partly fades?) 

Farewell ! Farewell ! 

{^The vision of Katharn a disappears altogether: 
Hannibal awakes^ rises ^ and paces backwards 
and forwards?) 

Hannibal {^anxiously), 

A dream which Moloch sent to me, perhaps. 
To guide my course aright ; or else the trick 
Of some fell demon luring on to doom. 

i^A pause?) 
As to my life I am indifferent : 
The heavens may threat to fall ; the tawny earth. 
Opening its jaws, may menace to engulf. 
Yet I remain unmoved and without dread ; 
But for my country it is different, 
Since her dear fate is given to my charge ; 
And I must scan each move most cautiously, 
However fair pretence may deck the lure. 

{^A paused 
She promised I should conquer Italy : 
A trap was never set without a bait ; 

{^A pause?) 



66 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

And yet my judgment tells the plan is right : 
No, no ; there is no fraud beneath the dream. 

{Enter Gisco.) 

Gisco. 

My lord, I come according to command, 
To learn your orders. 

Hannibal. 

Gisco, it is well : 
In the dark, silent watches of the night 
A vivid vision came to counsel me 
To cast aside the rule of strategy. 
That I might win the victory, as some 
Left-handed swordsman disconcerts his foe. 
However skilled he be ; for as I slept 
I saw the very form and face of one, 
A dear, lost friend, who promised victory ; 
Bidding me not to heed the road to Spain ; 
And see how truth shows further in her words : 
For if, being vanquished, we attempt retreat, 
The tribes behind would rise and bar our path, 
Till, overtaken by the conquering foe, 
We fall, surrounded by our enemies. 
Choose either course, defeat is certain death. 
And on that fact I base my reckoning : 
The move is desperate, but the boldest best. 
Then, Gisco, here we firmly hold our ground, 
Abandoning the road that leads to Spain : 
We tempt the Roman troops *to cross the fords. 
Then crush them in the act. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 6/ 

GiSCO. 

I understand : 
The army will be glad to greet the news 
That tells of coming conflict with the foe. 

{^Exit Gisco.) 

Hannibal. 

What puny trifles sometimes change our fate ! 
A Gavius lived, not even brave or true — 
Vile, worthless, he had yet the power to mar 
Katharna's life and mine, sending me here 
Perhaps to overthrow his country's power, 
When she might have escaped in whole or part. 
Then see, the chain will drag another way : 
Gavius bears off Alalia from her home ; 
I meet her here, and view her tragic death, 
And having spoken of her sister's fate. 
Which fills my thoughts with her before I sleep, 
I see my loved Katharna in a dream : 
She solves the problem hatching in my brain. 
Turning the scales which seemed so nicely poised 
That I had almost chosen otherwise. 
Instead of fixing on my present course. 
Decisions such as this may shake the world : 
Great in their failure, brilliant in success ! 
Which will it be ? This dawning day will tell. 

(// bccoincs ligJiicf\) 

But if this prove to be a warning dream, 
Guiding me on to glorious victory, 



68 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Then I am chosen by the gods indeed 
To extirpate the Romans and their sway ! 

[A pause.) 

'Tis said in wine the mind perceives the truth : 
So before battle when the nerves are strung. 

(^Exit.) 



Scene II. 

Before Hannibal's tent on the field of Canjice, after the 
battle : his third great victory^ each of which resulted 
in the total destruction of a Roman arniy^ the two 
previous victories being those of the Trebia and 
Thrasimene. Efiter Hannibal, acco7?ipanied by 
Gisco, a7id a Carthaginian Officer meeting them. 

Officer. 

My lord, there have arrived from Capua, 
Ambassadors seeking your powerful aid 
Against the Romans. 

Hannibal. 

Pray admit them, sir. 
(Hannibal stands before the door of his tent. Exit 
the Officer^ luho, presently retur?ii7ig, ushers in 
three Envoys, followed by Porters bearing presents 
of wine in amphoras^ with flowers and f?'uit in 
gilded baskets. The Eiivoys make obeisance before 
Hannibal : the Officer stands aside.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 6g 

First Envoy. 

Hail, mighty leader, who has crushed the power, 
Till now invincible, of Roman arms ! 
We pray you to accept from Capua 
These gifts in token of her fealty 
And proffered services. 

i^He motions to the Porters^ who pass before Hannibal, 
exhibiting the contents of their jars and baskets ; 
they then draw up at one side?) 

Hannibal. 

I welcome you. 
Ambassadors from " Capua the Fair ! " 
And am most grateful for the gifts you bring, 
With greetings to me in her honoured name. 

{^At a sign from Hannibal, exeimt the Porters^ 
conducted by the Officer^ 

First Envoy. 

My lord, we viewed your progress hopefully, 

Since first your conquering troops in triumph swept 

Down on the fertile plains, as eagles swoop 

From Alpine peaks. Soon afterwards you hurled 

The Roman legions into Trebia's stream : 

Next drew Flaminius in the fatal snare. 

Where calm Lake Thrasimene laves the strand : 

There sank a Roman host to rise no more ; 



70 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

And now a greater victory is won 
By your small force against a giant foe, 
Who thought to crush you in the river-loop, 
Spread by the Aufidus behind your ranks ; 
On Cannae's field, the grave of Roman power. 
Fell the third army of your enemies. 
So does the hawk, with greater nerve and skill, 
Defeat the cumbrous vulture's fierce attack. 
And meet, by rapid moves, unwieldy strength. 
This latest triumph may decide the war ; 
Yet come what may command our city's aid ; 
But strengthen us to ward the desperate strokes 
Of Rome, whom we defy ; if still it be, 
She has the will and power to turn on us 
For vengeance. 

Hannibal. 

Sirs, I thank you from my heart, 
For words so courteous and so flattering ; 
I hope ere long to make your noble town 
Unrivalled capital of Italy. 
I gratefully accept the powerful help. 
And should our foes assail your city walls, 
My veterans shall assist your native force 
To hurl them headlong from it. 

Second Envoy. 

Nobly said. 
By one whose deeds are weightier than words ! 
Now, gracious lord, we crave that you may deign, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 7 1 

On some auspicious day, to favour us 

By a triumphant visit to our town, 

When banquets, circus games, and festivals 

Will mark the gladness of the citizens, 

And their warm welcome to the honoured guest ; 

While if you tarry through the winter months 

We all will vie in hospitality. 

Striving to make your gallant troops forget 

The toils and hardships of their long campaigns. 

Hannibal. 

The honour will be mine, the pleasure ours. 
Of coming as you courteously invite ; 
Till then, my friends, farewell ! 

Envoys. 

My lord, farewell ! 

{^Exeunt Envoys^ conducted by Gisco, who then re- 
turns. Enter Maharbal, followed by Mago.) 

Hannibal. 

What news ? 

Maharbal. 

My lord, I hasten to report 
The capture of the various Roman camps. 
Where twenty thousand of their soldiers fled 
After your victory of yesterday, 
And now surrender, begging clemency. 



72 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

But let the earliest fruits of victory 
Not cloy your appetite for richer fare : 
Upon the field of Cannae we have found 
A key which can unlock the gates of Rome ! 
Permit me to lead forward instantly 
My bold victorious cavalry, who long 
To light a bonfire on old Tiber's banks : 
That all the nations may espy the flames, 
And recognise the Carthaginian's hand ! 
The foe must see me first approach the walls 
Before he hears that I am on the road ; 
If you will follow with the infantry : 
Then in four days at most, I promise you, 
That we shall sup within the Capitol ! 

Hannibal. 

Stay, good Maharbal : did success depend 
Upon your valour, energy, and skill. 
Or yet the prowess of your cavalry. 
We should be sure to win the desperate game ; 
But how could horsemen storm the battlements ? 
They must await the coming infantry, 
And thus surprise would fail ; nor does a siege 
Afford much hope for half-disciplined troops. 
Which scatter with their booty at their will : 
To leave us weak, recoiling from the walls. 
With foes to crush us ere we gather strength 
To combat them anew ; then we should lose 
The fruits of all our hard-gained victories ; 
One such defeat would surely end our power : 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 73 

Abandoned by allies, lacking a road 

By which we could retreat, our fate were sealed. 

But, Mago, hasten back to Carthage, now, 

And clearly show the Senate all our needs ; 

Entreat them to send me a powerful force 

Of steady, seasoned, gallant Spanish troops : 

Led by Hasdrubal, who, I am advised. 

Having restored peace to Emporia, 

Has now been summoned to command in Spain, 

Upon our venerable father's death. 

Of which the sad news came but yesterday. 

And will await the word to join us here. 

On the arrival of such powerful aid. 

We should be equal to the siege of Rome ; 

Nor need we quit her till she falls to us ; 

If not, her life would mean our country's death. 

Mago. 

Brother, my mission shall be as you wish ; 
I go at once. 

{Exeunt all but Hannibal.) 

Hannibal. 

Another victory ! 
Such triumphs overleap my highest hopes ; 
Great is the promised vengeance I have wreaked 
In the fierce battles of these long campaigns ; 
Offering by death whole hosts of warriors. 
From the accursed race I swore to hate, 



74 HA>'XIBAL AKD KATHARXA 

As sacrifices to my diet>-. 

Haste ! Haste, the fated day if viz : -ished Rome 

Is doomed to oerish br ereat Mclrci s will ; 



SCEXZ III. 

Grfffft of the temple of Asktarotk, the wufom-goddess^ at 
Cartkage. Emier MrxHVi^rPAL ---' Hurcta, wuet- 

MrXHXTMBAU 

Why, HdcU ! 

(HxRCTA hurries fonpori^ and extends hath handSj 
which MuTHiTMBAL grosps.) 

HXRCTA, 

Too, Mnthumbal! 

MuTmrMBAL, 

Yes, indeed : 
What heaTcnly power has sent yea ? 

H£RCTA. 

It is fate. 
Which gladdens me as well, by bringing here 
A friend to greet me amongst foreigners. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 75 

MUTHUMBAL. 

What tempted you to Carthage ? 

Hercta. 

By mere chance, 
I travelled with a wealthy dame from Spain, 
Camilla is her name, who settled here 
Not long ago. 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Thank goodness you have come ; 
May we meet often, is Muthumbal's prayer. 

Hercta. 
If you still care, I'll do so willingly. 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Care, Hercta ? 

Hercta {^pouting). 

Well, 'tis long since last we met 
And passed so many pleasant hours in Spain. 

MUTHUMBAL. 

If this were not a public place, my dear. 
Where grave men's eyes would mark a levity. 
And sombre minds might deeply censure me, 
Then I would offer you a gentle sign 



^6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

That my affection lasts for ever true. 

I long to add fresh memories to the old, 

Of happy days that I have spent with you ; 

Nor do I care for pleasing novelty, 

Which might have tempted men more frivolous 

To waver in your absence, and forget 

The fading forms of charming scenes long past. 

Hercta. 

Tell me, Muthumbal, how you prosper here ? 

MuTHUMBAL [looking proudly around). 

No more a warrior in the Punic host, 

Where, I may mention confidentially, 

I aided much the difficult success 

And glorious triumph of our arms in Spain ! 

I am the trusted scribe of Malchus now, 

Able lieutenant of our governor. 

The Suffete Hanno, whose wise policy 

Controls our state with undisputed sway, 

Since great Hamilcar's recent death in Spain, 

And while bold Hannibal remains abroad ; 

But often when the Suffete is oppressed 

By difficult matters and cares of state. 

He will consult with Malchus, who asks me 

To prompt his ready judgment of the case ! 

{Proudly.) 
'Tis then some happy stroke of genius shines, 
In Punic policy, to light the world : 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA T"] 

And all men marvel at its brilliancy, 
Giving the glory to the Suffete's skill, 

{^Mournfully}) 

While its true author is Muthumbal, here : 

{Dismally^ 
Doomed like a root to lie beneath the ground, 

{^yauntily^ 
But able to force up the vigorous stem 
Which bears sweet flowers and fruit to bless mankind ! 

Hercta. 

Is Malchus a good master to you now ? 

Muthumbal (after a pause). 

He's kindly. 

Hercta. 

How : not kind without being good ? 

Muthumbal. 

He gives me little rank and smaller pay ; 

{^A pause.) 
Yet once he saved my life. 

Hercta {clasping her hands). 

Oh, how was that ? 



78 HAXNIBAL AND KATHARXA 

MUTHUMBAL. 

One day when he was acting on my hint, 
A weighty business failed ; had he but told. 
In explanation, that the plan was mine. 
The raging Hanno would have had me slain 
To ease his bile ! 

Hercta. 
Bat Malchus did not tell ? 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Good Malchus kept his counsel, and I live ! 

Hercta. 

To give no credit when you guide them right. 
Yet kill you if your best advice prove wrong. 
Is neither justice nor humanity. 

MuTHXJMBAL {bitUrly), 

And yet it is a worldly way, I fear : 
The strong to seize upon the better prize. 
And cast the burdens on the helpless crew 
\Miose backs must bear them. 

Hercta {j^rrsuasively). 

Come, Muthumbal, come : 
You are embittered by your grievances, 
And take a much too gloomy view of life ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 79 

Ungenerous to the wise, the kind, and just. 
To those who freely give a liberal share 
Of wealth to aid the cause of charity, 
And find their happiness in doing good ; 
As well as those who, having lions' strength, 
Hold back their powers in noble equity, 
Supporting what is right and for the best. 
Consider this, and do not yet despair 
Of human nature. 

{A pause.) 
Malchus took the blame : 
Did Hanno threaten him with death ? 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Oh, no : 
He could not spare him. There are many scribes. 
So in my case it would be different. 

[A pause.) 
'Twas no mean danger that Malchus incurred. 
Braving the open or the secret force 
Of Hanno's wrath, to shield a humble scribe. 
His kindness touched me, for he took the blame. 

Hercta. 
Did Hanno punish him in lesser ways ? 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Not so, for Malchus might have sought revenge, 
Using for mischief any casual power. 



80 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Given by the knowledge of his master's plans, 
Or the dark workings of his policy ; 
Deep secrets which are hidden from even me, 
And might not bear inspection. 

Hercta. 

To live thus, 
When any day your work might earn the cross, 
Is terrible I 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Indeed, it would be so ; 
But since luck saved me and my life escaped, 
Through my good master's kindly clemency. 
Having in view to run no second risk, 
I have adopted a more prudent course. 
Persuading Malchus, wuth some share of skill, 
The thoughts I suggest are his own ideas ; 
Thus he accepts the bantlings readily. 
And fathers them in triumph or defeat. 

Hercta {dubiously). 
The plan succeeds, then ? 

Muthumbal. 

Yes, it does, my dear. 

Hercta [laughing). 

Well done, Muthumbal ! Your are wise enough. 
And may be trusted to protect yourself. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8 1 

But I must hasten to my mistress now : 
So, fare-you-well ! 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Say, will you meet me here. 
At the same hour to-morrow evening ? 

(Hercta runs backwards^ smiling and kissing 
the tips of her fingers to him.) 



Aye, if all's well ! 



Hercta. 



MUTHUMBAL. 



Good-bye, my love, till then ! 

{^Exeunt.) 



Scene IV. 

A street in Carthage^ outside the Senate-House, Enter the 
Suffete Hanno in a state litter^ escorted by soldiers^ 
and attended by Malchus. Hanno alights from the 
litter^ and turns to the bearers a?id escort. 

Hanno. 

Wait for me over there a little while. 

{They obey.) 
Now, Malchus, we approach the Senate-House, 



82 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

So I must choose quickly the wisest course ; 
For I can never make my will prevail 
Without clear definitions of my wish, 
Born of a settled plan. I think it best 
To grant at once the force that Hannibal 
Asks through his brother Mago at our hands ; 
What other answer could we send to him, 
Supported by the people ? 

Malchus. 

Good, my lord, 
You surely would not thus decide in haste 
To send the troops, if I could clearly show 
That course is fraught with danger to the State ? 
Suppose that Hannibal should conquer Rome, 
Who would be master of the Punic world ? 
Where would be then your present dignity 
As ruler, with a beneficent sway ? 



The need of my advice, or the full power 
To fittingly reward me for the aid ! 

Great Hannibal, the irresponsible, 
Would crush resistance to his sovereign will ; 
Who could deem that an end to be desired. 
For freedom's cause or yet our country's good ? 
Not I, for one, sir ! 

Hanno. 

Weighty reasons, friend : 
And as our nation's interests are at stake, 



{Aside.) 
{Aloud.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 83 

'Tis better not to grant the Spanish troops ; 
But would the populace approve ? 

Malchus. 

No doubt : 
I thought of that matter when coming here ; 
And hold you may divert the people's thoughts 
From Hannibal remaining without help ; 
For they will thank you for a holiday, 
Nor pay new taxes for a distant war. 
Declare in open Senate that to aid 
Our righteous cause of arms throughout the world, 
*Tis best to pray to the immortal gods, 
And name a day for human sacrifice 
At Moloch's shrine. The priests will praise your plan, 
Strengthening your power with all their influence ; 
They long have sought an opportunity 
To punish sinners who despise the gods. 
Holding the flamens as of little worth ; 
For which offences they would levy fines, 
Or seize the children of such impious men 
As a fit sacrifice for Moloch's fire : 
And might it not be useful to my Lord, 
In contumacious cases of dissent. 
From your benign, enlightened policy, 
If you could cause a hint to be conveyed, 
That if the parents' conduct should accord 
More with the obvious wishes of the gods — 
Which are, of course, interpreted by you — 
To give support to all your arguments. 



84 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Their children might be safer from the flames ? 
Think what a mighty stimulus is here 
To flagging zeal, and what a straightener-out 
Of crooked consciences ! 

Haxno. 

All very true : 
It shall be managed as you have proposed. 

(Haxxo enters t/ie Seriate' House. 
Exit Malchus.) 



Scene V. 

Reception-room in the mansion of Katharna, at Carthage^ 
where she is now dwelling under the name of Cx^ni.\.A. 
Katharna seated^ engaged with crochet-work in 
coloured luorsteds. Enter a Slave. 

Slave. 

Madam, the Suffete Hanno has arrived : 
Waiting your gracious pleasure, he requests 
The favour of an interview. 

Katharna. 

Indeed ? 
Admit his Excellency. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8$ 

(^Extt Slave, who presently returns conducting Hanno, 
and then withdraws. Katharna rises, smilifig, 
and bows to Hanno ; then motions him to be 
seated, and resumes her seat!) 

Katharna. 

Good, my lord, 
What lucky chance has turned your busy thoughts 
From stern affairs of state to me ? 

Hanno. 

I pray, 
Fair lady, tell me first : why does the flower, 
After night's darkness, turn towards the sun 
And watch, entranced, his course — imbibing life ? 
For then I will explain the simile. 

{^A pause ^ 
As the bright sun eclipses moon and stars. 
So do you ever shine pre-eminent 
Amongst the Punic dames ; by every right 
Of beauty, charm, and worth. 

(Hanno bows!) 

Katharna. 

But surely, sir. 
No cloud obscures the Punic firmament ; 
The rising fortunes of your mighty state 
Are most auspicious, since proud Rome lies crushed 
Beneath the deadly blow of Cannae ! 



86 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hanno (drily). 

Yes ; 

May they remain so is my prayer, and yet 
I fear they will not always triumph thus, 
In warfare carried on beyond the seas ; 



Although a public holiday is fixed, 
For human sacrifice at Moloch's shrine, 
To pray him aid our forces. 

Katharna. 

Is that all, 
When Mago has arrived to ask for help. 
To reap the harvest ready for the blade ? 

Hanno. 

'Tis true, but neither can we spare the cost, 
On account of our heavy taxes here ; 
Nor yet Hasdrubal from the strife in Spain, 
Where his brave troops still carry on the war 
With the last army sent by sea from Rome 
Against him. 

Katharna. 

Surely you will not rely 
Entirely, noble Suffete, on your prayers ; 
For would the gods believe you are sincere ? 
Now send Hasdrubal and his force from Spain, 
As Hannibal entreats, who knows the need ; 
Do this in place of human sacrifice. 



{^A pause!) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8/ 

Hanno (dubiously). 
Madam, the matter seems to move you much. 

Katharna. 

It does, my lord, because of gratitude 

For Carthaginian hospitality ; 

And also that I have inherited 

A deadly feud with Rome ; then know besides, 

I am a native of a distant land. 

Where we believe that human sacrifice 

Is only grateful to the gods above 

When offered boldly on the battle-field. 

In open warfare. 

Hanno. 

'Twould be difficult 
To alter now the well-considered plans, 
Approved already by the Senators 
At my suggestion. 

Katharna. 

Difficult to some : 
Not to my lord, whose lightest wish is law. 

Hanno {smiling), 

I would, dear madam, it were so with you ! 

Katharna {coyly). 
Why? 



88 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hanno ^passionately^ 

Inspired by my ardent love, 
I'd dare to claim the fruits 

Katharna (averting her face) . 

The fruits of love ? 
(A pause^ during which she appears to hesitate j 
she then continues with downcast eyes.) 
Who knows what conquests you may not achieve 
If you will send the force ? 

(A pause^ after which she raises her eyes, 
and meets his gaze.) 
Yet no true knight 
Barters brave deeds against a lady's smiles, 
But strikes a gallant blow in hopes of them, 
Founding his claim for the desired rewards 
Upon her gratitude. 

Hanno [aside), 

I'll hazard it ! 

[Aloud and eagerly.) 
It shall be as you wish ; the troops shall go 
Upon the mystic plea that I have seen 
Great Moloch, who appeared and ordered me 
To send Hasdrubal on to Italy, 
And sacrifice in battle Roman hosts 
Instead of children at his Punic shrine. 
But when it is resolved upon, I trust 
We meet? 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 89 

Katharna {with charming embarrassment). 

Say rather, when the force arrives 
At its due destination ; then command 
Camilla, who meanwhile must bid adieu. 

{She rises smiling, and bows to Han no, 
who smiles and bows ^ 

Hanno. 

Madam, I then remain your slave, as now. 

{Exit Hanno.) 

Katharna. 

I trust the desperate game I play is won, 
And Hannibal will gain the wished-for aid. 
I dwell in Carthage but to serve the cause : 
For this I lead the odious Suffete on. 
And bandy triflings hurtful to my fame ; 
For vengeance now I stake my life ; and yet 
I guard intact my honour, come what may. 

{Exit Katharna.) 



ACT III. 
Scene I. 

Entraiice to the temple of yiipiter at Ro??ie. Within it 
ca7i be seen a ci^owd^ many of whom are women ^ 
leading o?' ca7'rying children. The people are bowing 
and bending the knee^ or kneeling and lyi?ig pros- 
trate on the ground ; occasioiially risi?ig and extend- 
ing their ar7?is towards the statue of J upiter^ which 
stands at the further end of the tonple. The luotnen 
have dishevelled hair, and the whole appearance 
of the people suggests terror and distress. Enter 
Scipio. 

Scipio. 

Wild panic and confusion everywhere : 
The weak turn traitors and the strong turn weak ; 
Thus paralysed by Hannibal's approach, 
We might conclude an ignominious peace, 
Opening the gates to Punic treachery^ 
And choosing a short road to meet our doom ; 
But I must thwart this fatal policy ; 
So I have bribed the cunning soothsayers, 
To find the mystic omens favourable 
For stout resistance and continued war, 

90 



i<i 



« 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 9 1 

Promising that our triumph is secure 

If we will persevere courageously. 

{A pmise?) 
My will must rule the Senate and the town : 
Why have they made me Consul otherwise ? 
Besides, they owe me all their gratitude, 
For I regained our Spanish provinces 
After Hasdrubal marched for Italy ; 
Though having quickly come by sea to Rome, 
I'm here before he can arrive by land ; 
So if Rome will but act obediently, 
I'll guide her right, and save our fortunes yet. 

{^Enter two Senators ?neeting in the street : and on the 
steps of the temple^ the high priest of y^upiter, 
from within!) 

First Senator {excitedly), 

Rome's fate is sealed, unless we come to terms 
With this barbarian horde and conquering chief ; 
We'll send ambassadors to sue for peace 
At once ! 

Second Senator {gloomily). 

The city walls will check their course 
Until we barter all we have for peace ! 
But never can we conquer in a siege 
A man who always triumphs. 

Scipio. 

Hold, my friends : 
Indeed I trust that you exaggerate 



92 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Our danger and the helplessness of Rome ; 

For when the struggle's in the open field, 

Then armies seem to me like earthen jars, 

Which floating down a stream collide with force : 

While fate sinks one, perhaps the other swims ; 

But what can save the bowl, borne on the waves 

Of some wild flooded river, 'gainst the rocks ? 

Then let us welcome Hannibal's attack, 

If fate should drive him on to dash his strength 

Against walls which hot hatred cannot melt ; 

Nor could the Carthaginian's fiery mood 

Consume these faithful blocks of patient stone ! 

Moreover, by the grace of Jupiter, 

A day shall come when through a great defeat. 

Or else exhaustion from protracted war. 

The Punic power will fail in Italy ; 

Then shall arrive a time when we may pen 

The Carthaginian wolf within his lair, 

And drive him forth to die upon our spears ! 

But now let every Roman's heart be firm ; 

Do not beg mercy from a cruel foe, 

Who only deals in Punic treachery. 

The mighty power and dignity of Rome 

Rest on her gallant offspring's fortitude ; 

And shall we be the first to seal their doom ? 

Think that our honour is in jeopardy ! 

First Senator. 

My lord, your judgment is experienced 
Through Jong and arduous service in the field ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA * 93 

So if you deem resistance for the best, 
As not without the hope of victory, 
What can we say who speak by theory ? 
Your skilled advice must guide us. 

Second Senator. 

*Tis well said ; 
I do not understand the use of walls, 
But thought them built for foes to batter down, 
Instead of, as you have explained to us. 
To lure bold rams to crush their butting heads. 

High Priest. 

Well spoken, noble Consul Scipio ! 
Accept the leadership, for you are skilled 
In council and the conduct of a war. 
Even from flames and ashes Rome would rise, 
Like the young phoenix, and renew the fight. 

[He raises his voice, and addresses the crowd 
now issuing from the temple?) 

Have courage, citizens, and shun despair ; 
For the immortal gods will strengthen us 
To wreak a signal vengeance on our foes, 
Who worship Baal with human sacrifice ! 

First Citizen. 
Our courage shall not fail ! 



94 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Other Citizens. 

Never till death ! 

High Priest. 

'Tis well, my sons. Now let your firm resolve 
Inspire your friends with equal fortitude. 
Say Scipio demands that Rome stands firm : 
And the High Priest of Jupiter proclaims 
That the great gods will aid us ! 



Citizens. 

Yes, 
Aye. 



We will ! 



{Exeu?2t. ) 



Scene II. 

Before the Colline Gate^ Rome, Eiiter Hannibal 
attended by officers j also to the right and left Car- 
thaginian archers and sliiigers. They approach the 
gate. 

Hannibal. 

Well done, good marksmen ; you have cleared the wall ! 
There's not a crop-haired Roman to be seen. 
And now it seems to hedge an empty town ; 
Yet, close behind those massive beams of oak, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA g$ 

There lurks the foe prepared for devilment, 
Like the fierce badger in his narrow hole. 
Although they cannot see me, yet they hear 
What I proclaim aloud before these doors. 
That I will soon redeem my vow of hate 
After Hasdrubal's army has arrived. 
Which, 'tis well known, is now upon the way 
To reinforce my power and join the siege ; 
But in the meanwhile there are Latin towns 
Unfortified and lying helplessly, 
Which owe allegiance to hard-stricken Rome, 
And now shall pay for it by servitude ; 
There we will wait the coming of our troops. 

{^Exeunt. As they retire^ Roman soldiers appear upon 

the walls^ yelling after them and brandishing 

weapons^ 



Scene III. 

Before Hannibal's tent in the Carthaginian camp 71 ear 
' Rome. Enter Hannibal attended by Gisco and 
Mago. 

Hannibal. 

Ere now Hasdrubal's army, probably. 
Has approached northern Italy. At least 
We know the date on which his force set out ; 
And reckoning for a march so arduous. 
He should be nearing soon our battle-fields 



[ 



96 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Or theatre of war. 'Tis very strange 
No speedy messenger has arrived yet, 
To tell his progress, and concert with me 
How we could best combine to crush the foe. 
Has Consul Claudius Nero checked his march ? 
If so, I pray it may not be for long ; 
But stranger, Mago, is what you relate. 
That Hanno's influence procured this help 
Which I sought from the Senate. 

Mago. 

Yes, most strange, 
After he had opposed it bitterly ; 
He changed, and led with him the Senators 
To give approval to the scheme you wished. 

Hannibal. 

'Tis marvellous ! Perhaps in the cold breasts 

Of those who hunger but for gaudy power. 

And gain their selfish ends by truckling 

To ignorance and narrow prejudice. 

There lurks a secret spark of patriotism. 

Which being fanned by chance enflames the soul. 

Firing to noble deeds. 

{A pause. ) 

But who comes here ? 

There's something wrong, to judge his troubled face, 

His dull and downcast mien. 

{^Enter a Cart hag inia?t Officer.) 

What tidings, sir ? 



-. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 97 

Officer [^gloomily), 

I hastened from the outposts here, my lord, 
And bring grave news, if true. 

^He opens a cloak which he is carryings and discloses 

a human head^ with a sheet of papyrus attached 

to the hair.) 

Soon after dawn 
A Roman cast this head before our lines, 
With gestures to invite our noticing ; 
Then, seeing that our sentries had observed. 
And some were moving to the spot, he fled. 
I'll wait without, my lord, in case of need 
For further questioning. 

{Exit Officer. Hannibal, who has taken the head^ 

holding it partly wrapped in the cloak^ reads an 

inscription on the papyrus. ) 

Hannibal {reading). 

" Hasdrubal's head, 
Which Claudius Nero sends to Hannibal." 



Hasdrubal dead ! 



Mago. 



Hannibal. 



I mourn my brother's death, 
And see before me here my country's doom. 
Hasdrubal's army has been overthrown. 
And Carthage will decline to send more aid. 



98 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Now Rome will be indeed impregnable, 

And soon will seek revenge on Punic soil, 

Remembering that our peaceful citizens 

Are busy traders, quite unused to arms. 

They dread a siege by Rome, and yet withhold 

The full supplies to wage a distant war. 

Which might have saved them. Here behold a sign, 

A head, the symbol of a nation's death ! 

Gisco, I would be some brief space alone. 

To ponder on my brother's memory ; 

But, Mago, first let us converse of it. 

Gisco. 

Peace be with you and bold Hasdrubal's manes ! 

{^Exit Gisco.) 

Mago. 

There never beat a stouter heart than his, 
Or one more kind and true. 

Hannibal. 

He died for us. 

{Exeunt.) 



Hannibal and katharna 99 

Scene IV. 

Reception-room in Katharna's mansion in Carthage. 
Enter Katharna, and presently a Slave. 

Slave. 

Madam, the Suffete Hanno has arrived, 
And seeks the favour of an interview. 

Katharna. 

Admit his worship. 

i^Exit Slave.) 

Katharna {raising her hands towards heaven). 

Ye immortal gods, 
Assist me in this crisis ! 

{Enter Hanno.) 

Katharna {bowing). 

Good, my lord. 
You are most welcome in my humble home. 

Hanno {boiving low). 

Madam, I come by your permission given 
At our last meeting, which seems years ago ; 



lOO HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Borne on the wings of love, I spurn the ground, 
And count the very winds of heaven too slow 
To bear me in my eager flight to you ! 

Katharxa. 

My lord, you have already truly won 
Camilla's gratitude ; nobler by far, 
You wisely strove to serve your country's cause, 
Although we must deplore a great defeat ; 
Hasdrubal's army failed, doomed and destroyed. 
Nor reached its goal of joining with the host 
Of Hannibal ; to whom, I pray, despatch 
A stronger force to gain complete success. 
And win for you the favours, which mischance 
Still leaves somewhat beyond your certain reach 
For their attainment. 

(Katharna partly bows to Hanno, partly loivers 
her face a?id eyes; Hanxo starts, then after a 
pause replies.) 

Hanno {impatiently), 

Madam, now in truth, 
I would convey the glancing sunbeams here 
To give you joy, but the stern fates forbid. 
Indeed, you wish a thing impossible, 
Since Carthage will not grant more troops for this ; 
While even now the disappointed mob, 



J 



Hannibal ANt) katharna loi 

Which yesterday applauded, seeks my blood, 
Crying, I sent Hasdrubal to his doom. 

(^Earnestly^ 
I pray, then, grant the longed-for priceless boon 
You promised me? 

^A pause^ after which Hanno continues^ 
warmly and proudly^ 

Command me if you will. 
Proving devotion and my ardent love, 
To strive to reach far Eziongeber, 
By rounding the South Horn and outstretched arm 
Of Aromata ! Bid me sail four moons 
To westward of the land, through waves and clouds, 
Where ocean grasses rope-like bind the prows 
Amid the roar of distant cataracts, 
While blood-red fogs obscure the setting sun, 
And mystic breezes laden with perfume 
Soothe all the crews to sleep, so that their minds. 
Bewitched, can ne'er recall their voyages ! 

i^A pause^ during which Katharna 
does not respond^ 

Or fly with me to that bright halcyon isle, 
Of late discovered, and which lies midway 
Upon the heaving bosom of the deep. 
Where golden sands are laved by silvery seas, 
And mountains rise on mountains, peaks on peaks, 
Until the highest granite spire attains 

(^He raises his hand above his head and 
points ipicards.) 



I02 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

To realms beyond the ken of mortal man ; 

While on the summit of the pinnacle 

The heavens are fixed, and round it stars revolve. 

{^He lowers his hand.) 
To mirror nature limpid rivers flow, M \ 

Where, clothed in ever-verdant garb, there dwells 
Perennial Spring on forest, field, and flood. 
You shall be queen of that fair paradise. 
There tranquilly to dwell in sylvan peace, 
Or, like a second Dido, found a world ! 
Consorting with you I will there renounce 
The pomps and power, the strife of government. 
For evermore, which here engross my life. 

{A patise.) 

Katharna. 

My lord, I thank you, but I crave your grace, 
I have already answered. 

Hanno {indignantly). 

Pause, reflect ; 
For, madam, it is scarcely suitable 
I should be lightly spurned, as though I were 
Some simpering garland-ornamented youth 
Who fails to please, but ever dances on 
Before you in faint hope ! 

(Hanno pauses j Katharna is sile?it j and Hanno 
continues^ becoming calmer.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA IO3 

For still the power, 
Which at your bidding sent Hasdrubal forth, 
Is strong in Carthage, and can work my will 
If fair persuasion fails. Camilla, say. 
Have you no kinder word before I go ? 

Katharna. 
Alas, no other, sir ; I spoke my mind. 

Hanno [enraged). 

Then heaven help you when you pray for aid ! 

i^Exit Hanno.) 

Katharna {after a pause). 

I almost answered with another threat, 
When he was raving of his mighty power ; 
But I have greatly angered him, 'tis true. 
And duped him thoroughly to gain my ends. 
So that he may, by right, complain of me. 
Since Hannibal was far and I alone, 
I worked with ready wit and smiling mien ; 
At first they triumphed, now I fear they fail ! 

{Exit) 



104 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



Scene V. 

The Grcrce of the Temple of Ashtaroth^ at Carthage. 
Enter Mu thumb al : he examines a sun-dial. 

MuTHUMBAL {gloomilj). 

Preserve us, heaven ! 'Tis past the promised hour, 
By several notches on the tell-tale dial, 
Yet Hercta is not here : she may not come. 
Ah, what a painful thought, to be in doubt 
As to the cause, perhaps for many hours ! 

{Pensively.) 
To-morrow is uncertain, for this night, 
As Hanno bids, her mistress will be seized : 
For Hercta's safety there's anxiety ; 
But dare I warn her ? No, for she might tell 
Her mistress, whom she loves so faithfully ; 
And did Camilla learn the threatened blow 
Impends above her head, she would escape ; 
But Hercta will be rescued by her wit, 
And if no roof protects her in her need. 
To pass one night beneath the brilliant moon, 
On soft and verdant Carthaginian lawns, 
Amidst the beauteous flowering shrublets' shade, 
Breathing soft air, heavy with sweet perfumes. 
Would be no hardship ; and the friendly night 
Can hide with sable cloaks her loveliness. 
Which otherwise might tempt some loiterer 
To jeopardise her honour and my love ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I05 

So I must meet and guard her at the dawn, 
To part no more from her : leading her home, 
Where, as my wife, she will be quite secure. 

{^Gloomily^ 
But why delays my fair one, dallying thus ? 
Perhaps she has begun to cool to me ! 

{Reflectively?) 
Yet, patience ; wait and see ; don't fear the worst ! 

{^Satirically.^ 
A woman must attire herself, to add 
New lustre to her charms ; forgets the hour, 
Or, noting it, delays, knowing full well 
Poor old Muthumbal still must wait for her ! 

{Quickly.) 
There's some one passing through those shrubberies ; 

{joyfully.) 
Great Tanit bless her : now she comes at last ! 
Away with doubts ; away with carking care ; 
Nor scare my darling with a gloomy face 
When greeting her ! 

{Enter Hercta, smiling.) 

Hercta. 

Muthumbal, pray forgive 
The great delay ; my mistress kept me long ; 

{Coquettis/ily.) 
Stern duty often bars a pleasant road — 
Sometimes for ever. 



to6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

MUTHUMBAL. 

Now, all's well : you're here ; 
Indeed, you were forgiven before you asked ; 
And yet I wish a favour in return : 
'Tis that we meet to-morrow at the dawn, 
Instead of at the hour the fiery god 
Falls in the western ocean. 

Hercta. 

I will try ; 
But why, Muthumbal, do you name the dawn ? 
My mistress often needs my services 
So early. 

Muthumbal. 

Well, my love, 'tis for your good ; 
But promise me to come, if you are free 
To carry out your pledge. 

Hercta. 

And why not free ? 
Speak, good Muthumbal, speak. I pray you trust 
Your Hercta, and explain the mystic plot 
That lies between your sayings and your mind ; 
For if indeed you cannot yet rely 
On the discretion of your lover's will, 
As trust brings trust, the want of it, the want : 
Then how can I, a helpless woman, rest 
With confidence upon your guarding arm ? 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA lO/ 

And if you will not make a sacrifice, 
But must refuse a boon to her you love, 
Consider well what bitter seed you sow. 
For I must surely know the truth at last 
Which you hold back from me ! 

MuTHUMBAL {reluctantly). 

Let it be so ; 
But pledge your word to guard as secret news 
All that I tell, and ne'er to be divulged. 

Hercta. 
I promise you. 

MuTHUMBAL {earnestly). 

Then listen to my tale. 
This night the mob — raging at our defeat, 
Spying out treason in Camilla's mind, 
And that she used a secret magic spell. 
By which she urged the wavering Suffete on 
To send Hasdrubal's force — will seize on her 
And bear her captive, waiting Hanno's will, 
'Twas Malchus who designed this treachery 
At Hanno's wish, and roused the populace. 
Though vainly, I endeavoured to dissuade 
Ere Malchus broached the matter to his lord ; 
And after, 'twas too late. So Hercta, dear, 
Avoid the danger by an early flight ; 
Meet me at break of day, and until then, 
Heaven guard you safe from harm ! 



I08 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hercta {aside), 

I must away 

And warn my mistress. 

{Aloud.) 
Love, your heart is good : 
I thank you for the news, and I will come. 

{Exeunt.) 



Scene VI. 

Reception-room in Katharna's mansio7i in Carthage. 
Katharna seated, engaged in crochet-work. Enter 
Hercta hurriedly. 

Hercta. 

Fly, madam, fly ; for even now the mob. 

Raging with fury, comes to seize on you ! 

Muthumbal, whom I knew of old in Spain, 

Is now the scribe of Malchus, and lives here : 

He told me, being anxious for my life, 

And bade me to escape. Malchus has raised 

The wanton crowd, and cried you had bewitched 

The Suffete's mind with charms of sorcery, 

Till Hanno, yielding, sent Hasdrubal on 

To perish with his host. Thus I have gained 

The warning from Muthumbal just in time ; 

His death were sure, if his fierce master knew 

He had betrayed the secret thus to me 

Which rescues you ! 



., 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA IO9 

Katharna. 

True friend, indeed I owe 
My life and honour to your faithfulness ! 
Quick ! Fetch me here a peasant's shawl and gown, 
That I may pass unnoticed through the gates. 

{A confused sound of distant voices is heard, 
which grows louder,) 
Already I can hear the rabble's shouts 
Outside ! 

Hercta. 

I'll bring the dress. 
{Exit Hercta. Further clamour is heard, louder 
than before. Enter Malchus, accompanied by 
MuTHUMBAL and Abdalonim, and followed 
by a mob armed with sticks, swords, bows, and 
spears?) 

Katharna {indignantly). 

Explain this force ! 
What means your sudden advent ? Are you sent, 
Or come of your own will ? Disclose your names. 

Malchus. 

Pardon us now ; we are to lead you hence, 
To Suffete Hanno, unto whom complaint 
Is made by many tongues, the breath of fame : 
That you conspired against our Commonwealth. 
Pray, know that Malchus is my humble name. 



no HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Katharna {haughtily). 

My innocence gives strength to meet the charge. 

{Satirically^ 
But why are all your followers well armed ? 
In dread of women's bodkins ? I'll prepare, 
With your permission, to accompany you, 
Cloaking in the adjoining room. 

Malchus. 

I fear 
I must constrain you to depart at once. 
Hanno commanded me emphatically 
Not to lose sight of you. 

Katharna {haughtily), 

I hold your name 
A guarantee for courteous treatment, sir. 

{Fe?'suasively.) 
Pray send a trusted messenger with me ; 
Then, duly habited with shawl and hood, 
ril hasten to repel this cruel charge. 
And prove to Hanno my sincerity. 

Malchus. 

Madam, delay not long, for Hanno waits : 

Abdalonim, attend the lady hence. 

{Exeunt Katharna and Abdalonim, through cur- 
tains , i7ito a7i adjoining apartment. Malchus 
addresses Muthumbal.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 111 

A fascinating dame, no doubt of it ! 

Did you observe her mien when first we came ? 

Like that of some proud warrior chief beset, 

And driven to bay within his last redoubt. 

Then pleased with our appearance she became 

In face and manner most agreeable, 

Till by degrees the pleasant semblance rose, 

We were allies and long-tried friends of old. 

Now, good Muthumbal, I can understand 

The subtle magnet of a woman's eye. 

Which tames the sterner temper of our sex, 

Rendering our conduct fair and courteous ; 

But still I cannot comprehend the power 

That duped great Hanno, bound his yielding will, 

Forced him to stultify his policy. 

Sending Hasdrubal, though he had opposed 

Till then his marching into Italy ! 

{A pause, after which Malchus continues 
satirically?) 
Methinks the lady trifles far too long ! 
Perhaps attires herself with tricky skill, 
And smoothened niceness, to uphold her sway 
Where first she conquered. 

(Malchus calls through the curtain?) 
Pardon, madam, pray ; 
But we must now proceed. 

{^No answer bei?tg returfied, Malchus bursts through 
the curtains, and is then heard to exclaim^ 
Abdalonim ! 
Great Moloch's Face ! ! The Countenance of Baal ! ! ! 

(Malchus returns?) 



112 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Our noble quarry's gone ! Abdalonim 

Lies helpless, gagged and bound, in mute reproach ; 

Chained like a felon by Camilla's slaves, 

Who, fearing punishment, have swiftly fled. 

(Malchus addresses two of his followers?) 
Release the good Abdalonim at once. 

{Exeunt the two followers, as directed. Malchus 
continues, addressing other followers.) 

Guard quick the gates I Grant heaven 'tis not too late ! 

{Exeunt hurriedly, on both sides, the followers 
addressed?) 
For dreadful is the Suffete's darker mood, 
Both fierce and deadly, as when lightning flames 
Down from the storm-clouds on the helpless earth, 
And scorches midst the din of warring spheres. 
But if the bird is flown, at least her nest 
Remains your proper prize. 

MUTHUMBAL. 

No further hint 
Is needed, sir ; they're like the eager hounds 
That spurn the leash to chase the flying deer I 

{Exeunt all except Mu thumb al, who continues, 
poi?iti?ig over his shoulder with his thumb after 
Malchus.) 
She duped poor Malchus while he laughed at ease. 
Deeming it safe where Hanno was ensnared. 
Ha ! ha ! 'tis wiser not to take as guide, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 11^ 

In weighty matters, any woman's smile. 

That was the reason why Malchus was pleased, 

{Drawing himself up) 

Having reliance on my self-control. 
That I should court fair Hercta once again ; 
He hoped her prattle might perhaps disclose 
Some useful secrets, if they should exist, 
Touching Camilla and the Suffete's flame ; 
And though I own myself aglow with love, 
It would be strange indeed if I advised 
With charming Hercta on affairs of state, 
Whispering their confidences in her ear ! 
Although she is a very clever girl. 
Much interested in what touches me. 

{A pause.) 
How she enjoys the quiet, skilful moves, 
By which I guide old Malchus safe along, 
And lead him where I wish, but still conceal 
The strings by which I move the puppet-show, 
Whose figures tickle him and point the road ! 

{He exclaims.) 
But stay ! 

{Speaking sloudy^ in perplexity?) 

I told my Hercta that the mob 
This evenin^r would invade Camilla's house. 



{Defiantly) 



But what of that ? It was to save her life ! 
And she is most discreet, in silence safe. 



114 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

No doubt she locked the secret in her breast, 
And fled in time to shun the risk of ill. 

{Contentedly^ 

So she will come to-morrow to the tryst ; 
May Tanit's blessing rest upon her head ! 

(^.v/V.) 



ACT IV. 

S C E N E I. 

Courtyard of Elissa^s palace^ situated at some days' 
journey frofn Carthage, Enter King Massinissa 
accompanied by two courtiers, 

Massinissa (dubiously), 

I fear my eagerness, which spurred me on, 
Has brought me somewhat early in the day : 
For my return to urge my suit again, 
After the war in which my fortunes failed ; 
But it is now too late to hesitate. 

(A pause.) 
Quickness is best in changeful times like these, 
When war may summon any warrior 
To seek the field of battle in an hour. 
Now peace gives liberty for tender words, 
Breathed softly in a lady's little ear : 
With tender glances from love-laden eyes, 
And thrilling pressures of the lingering lips. 

{He knocks at the castle door.) 
But who comes here ? King Sphax to thwart again ! 
Sent by an evil genius, certainly. 

{Enter King Sphax, attended by tiiw courtiers.) 
115 



Il6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

My service to your highness. 

( The two ki?igs and their attendants bow 
low to each other?) 

Sphax. 

Gracious lord, 
As ruler of a country bordering yours, 
I seize this opportunity to tell 
My happiness, that all our strife is past. 
May peace for ever reign between our states ! 

Massinissa. 

Such is my earnest prayer ! 

Sphax (aside). 

Unfortunate ! 
Forced thus to parley here on even terms ; 
Although the conqueror, doomed to enter last, 
All's lost if he should gain first audience ! 
How could a maiden care for argument 
From one grown old and sere, however wise, 
When nature's promptings have persuaded her 
To listen to the warmer words of love 
Breathed by a rival ? 

( The castle door is opened by a Slave : he looks with 
hesitation from one party of visitors to the others 
as they stand collected on either side of the door, 
Sphax conti?nus addressing Massinissa.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA «7 

Will your highness grant 
That I may enter first ? 

Massinissa {indignantly). 

My timers short, sir : 
How do you base this claim ? 

Sphax. 

Upon the war. 

Massinissa. 

First comers take the/^x. 

Sphax. 

My victory 
By chance has given precedence to me now ; 
Though mine is not a greater worthiness, 
Except through fickle fortune. 

Massinissa. 

Still, I hold, 
We meet as nobles here, and not as kings 
Enthroned. 

Sphax {persuasively). 

Then yield precedence to my years. 






Il8 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Massinissa {laughifig), 

'Tis the first time, unless you only jest, 
That age has been advanced as forming claims 
Within the sunny courts of youthful love : 
At least I never knew it so ! 

Sphax {angrily). 

No, boy ! 
No, beardless boy, the wonder is not great : 
But rather that you have known anything, 
Besides experience of some childish toys ! 

Massinissa (drawing his sword). 

Hah, insolence indeed ! A plaything this, 
I warrant I have not forgot to use. 
Come, draw, sir, draw ! 

(Sphax draws his sword and they fight ; the courtiers 
on either side also draw their weapons and 
engage.) 

Slave. 

They fight within the gates ! 
I'll close the door at once, and bear the news 
To Dame Elissa. 

( The Slave re-e?iters, and closes the door. A window 
of the palace overlooking the gate is hastily opened, 
and Dame Elissa appears at it.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA II9 

Elissa. 

Pause, your highnesses ! 
I do beseech you both to stay your hands, 
Nor bring ill-fortune to my widowed home, 
Beyond the evil that the gods have willed 
Already in my husband's death ! 

( The combatants pause ^ and draw back a little 
beyond engaging distance?^ 

Sphax. 

Madam, 
Your presence calms, like oil upon the waves. 

Elissa. 

I thank your highness, on my own part. 

And from my daughter, for your courtesy 

In coming here to-day. I grieve to say 

The Lady Sophonisba is unwell : 

Thi§ bars the pleasure of receiving you ; 

But on her earliest recovery 

She will invite one of your highnesses, 

Through me, to come again and hear her thanks, 

With full permission given to urge his suit ; 

Till then, your highnesses, farewell ! 

Sphax and Massinissa. 

Farewell ! 
[^Exit Elissa.) 



I20 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Massinissa. 

Your highness, we shall meet again. 

Sphax. 

Elsewhere : 
When you appoint, you will not find me fail ! 

( The two parties baiu to each other ^ and tvithdraw 
in opposite directio7is. Exeunt?) 



Scene II. 

Reception-room in the palace of Elissa. Sophonisba 
engaged in arranging flou^ers in a vase. Enter 
Elissa. 

Elissa {aside). 

I must not frighten her with vivid tales, 

Of Sphax and Massinissa fighting here. 
But gloss it over. 



{Aloud,) 



Sophonisba, dear ; 
Believe me it is most desirable 
That you should soon decide between the suits 
Of the two Western kings who came to-day, 
Seeking your answers which will seal their fate. 
They do high honour to our family. 
While paying tribute to your loveliness. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 121 

By chance they met this morning at our gates, 
And found bitter excuse to disagree, 
But listened to my soothing words of peace ; 
As well behoved such courteous gentlemen, 
Appealed to by a lady. 

SOPHONISBA. 

Marriage, now ? 
O mother, would the matter were postponed ! 
The thought weighs on my spirit like a spell ; 
That I might soon be called on to leave home, 
And live amid the wars. 

Elissa. 

Grieve not for this ; 
But as you may desire, so it shall be : 
And I, your only parent, will approve. 
Yet if, of free consent, you could accept 
The offer of a husband and a crown. 
Why, Carthage then would secure an ally ; 
While now, although hard-pressed in Africa, 
She cannot count on either king. 

SOPHONISBA. 



Well, well ! 
Dear mother, as you wish, I'll think of it. 

It seems my country's cause requires my aid ; 
Or else I would not wed with either lord. 



{Aside.) 



122 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Which should I choose? The venerable Sphax, 
Who would soon free me from my bond again ; 
Or youthful Massinissa for my life ? 
So, to the end, my heart might throb in vain 
For freedom ; as the panting, captured bird, 
Caught in the fowler's cruel net. 

{Enter a Slave,) 

Slave {addressing Elissa). 

Madam, 
A city lady begs an interview, 
For though she wears a fortune-teller's dress, 
She speaks as one who dwells in palaces ; 
Not like the poor who ply the mystic trade. 
And sleep at night beneath the starry heavens. 
She would relate some weighty business. 
Petitioning for aid. 

Elissa. 

Return at once : 
Conduct her here with kindly courtesy. 

{Exit Slave, who presently retur?is with Katharna, 
who is dressed as a fortune-teller. Exit Slave.) 

Katharna {to Elissa). 

Madam, believe me, driven by great distress 
To venture this intrusion on your time ; 
Which, pardon me, as thus I hope to save 
A prize to woman dearer than her life. 
From the dread menace of a man I hate. 



Hannibal and katharna 123 

Elissa. 

Already you have said enough to win 
My sympathy, with one in urgent need ; 
Who asks a sister's help to shield her fame. 
I pray disclose your name ? Who is the wretch 
Who persecutes you ? 

Katharna. 

Madam, by my birth 
A Spaniard, I have dwelt for many years 
In Carthage, and Camilla is my name ; 
While he who would ensnare me in his toils 
Is Suffete Hanno. 

SOPHONISBA. 

Fortune favours me, 
In that it brings Camilla to my side, 
Although her troubles grieve me to the heart ; 
For often I have heard from eager lips 
The praise of one whose charms and virtues vied. 
Each rivalling each in greater excellence. 

Elissa. 

Still stronger is the claim you hold on me, 

To save you from the crafty Suffete's power, 

Hostile to you and to my family. 

Accept, I pray, a sanctuary here, 

Until safer retreats are found for you. 

And ever deem me pledged to aid your cause. 



124 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Since household business summons me away, 
Be pleased to pardon if I leave you now, 
With commendations, to my daughter's care. 

Katharna. 

Madam, 
My gratitude is deep for all you grant ; 
Well worthy is this hospitality 
Of your famed justice and benevolence, 
Which tempted me to seek protection here ; 
The more that I knew well your husband's power 
Was used against the Suffete Hanno. 

Elissa. 

Yes; 
Peace be with him : my husband ever chose 
The wisest course to gain his country's good ! 

i^Exit Elissa.) 

SOPHONISBA. 

Now we're alone I wush to ask a boon 
From one who bears the mystic signs of lore. 
Dark divination and the magic spells ; ' 
Pray tell a maid in sore perplexity, 
Wooed by two suitors, if her choice should fall 
On one of them. 

Katharna. 

I'd aid you willingly ; 
But, madam, know this strange and tawdry garb 



1 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 25 

Is but a cloak to frail humanity ; 

Nor would I trade upon your offered trust 

By arrogating powers I do not own. 

But if your fancy wishes from a seer, 

The mere embroidery of a useful robe, 

Pray learn my thoughts which prompt the following lines : 

Not he whose youth and beauty please the eye 
Will prove the firmest friend if need shall try : 

But he who lately led his valiant hosts 
To glorious victory on the Western coasts, 

SoPHONiSBA [smiling). 

Your modesty disclaims the magic power : 
And yet my suitors are both known to you ! 
Well, your rhyme points this moral to the tale : 
That I should choose the stronger in the field, 
And bind him firmly, as a sure ally 
To aid my country. 

Katharna. 

Madam, it is so ; 
I have no knowledge but a woman's thoughts : 
And yet perhaps I know more subtle things 
Than those who with a solemn mien pretend 
To wield the wand of witchcraft. 

SOPHONISBA. 

That is well : 
You will enlighten me as I require ; 



126 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Be sure we shall discuss the matter more 
When leisure bids ; but now I must retire 
To aid my dearest mother, if she needs. 
I pray you rest after your journey's toil, 
Securely here. 

Katharna. 
I thank your ladyship. 

{^Exit SOPHONISBA.) 

An amiable girl, who has deserved 
My deepest gratitude. Ah, would that she 
Might live in happiness and peace, as now : 
A flower ungathered on the parent stem ! 
Nor do her suitors move her heart or mind, 
Else she would not require a stranger's aid 
To judge the merits of their tales of love. 
But policy compelled me to promote 
Her marriage schemes, to gain in Africa 
The vantage we have lost in Italy. 
Yet my rhymed choice may well be true enough. 
To judge by Massinissa's shifty eye. 
And Spax's tempered, kind complacency. 
That lacks not firmness when there is a need, 
Being well-suited to hold close in check, 
And rule the fiery passions of a man. 
Which make youth fickle but old age secure. 
To her who first may win the suitor's love. 
But here comes Hercta, who I must release 
From her long faithful services. 

{Enter Hercta.) 



A 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 2/ 

At last, 
Dear Hercta, you are free to leave me here, 
Where I am welcomed with kind courtesy, 
By Dame Elissa's and her daughter's grace, 
Until this momentary need is past ; 
Though I might dwell for ever here in peace. 
Or wander soon perhaps to other scenes, 
Seeking oblivion from my lasting cares. 
Return, then, to your lover, who would wed. 
And live in happiness as you deserve. 
Remembering always in your distant home 
My gratitude for your great services 
Will never fade. I owe you more than life ; 
For through your warning I escaped the snare 
That Hanno and his agents spread. 

(Katharna offers her hand, which Hercta kisses.) 

Hercta. 

Madam, 
I trust that you may live in happiness, 
Enjoying health and all prosperity ; 
And if by chance you should have need of me, 
Summon, and I will hasten to your side. 
Esteeming it a happy privilege 
To serve my valued mistress once again. 

(Exit Hercta.) 

Katharna. 

Indeed, fate trifles with our happiness ! 

Think of my youthful days, long past, in Spain, 



!28 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

When I was Hannibal's affianced wife, 

Blessed by a father's and a sister's love. 

What have I now to hope for in my life ? 

Some vengeance I have had, 'tis true, on Rome ; 

Complete revenge, for which I yielded all, 

Is long in its fulfilment, if it come. 

But Hercta, left an orphan by the wars, 

Was never led to quit a woman's sphere 

Of modest, tender usefulness and love : 

Now reaps her just reward, a happy home. 

{She weeps.) 
In her I lose my oldest, truest friend. 
Who dwelt since childhood ever at my side. 

{Exit Katharna.) 



Scene III. 

Before the Senate-house ifi Carthage. Enter Hannibal 
on his 7vay to the Se?iate ; a mob gathers^ cheering 
him^ bowing^ and gesticulating, 

Hannibal. 

My friends, I thank you for your welcoming ; 

But moderate the honours you bestow : 

Cheer louder when I vanquish Scipio, 

And drive his troops from Carthaginian soil. 

Remember, 'tis your work as well as mine ! 

(Hannibal enters the Senate-house. Exeunt the 
crowd cheering. Frese?itly e?iter Hanno in his 
palanquin^ acco??ipanied by Malchus. Hanno 
alights. Exeunt the bearers with the litter?) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 29 

Hanno. 

Well, have you any further word of her ? 
What happened when Katharna had escaped 
So narrowly ? 

Malchus. 

As yet there is no news : 
But we are making careful search, my lord. 
The rabble quickly wrecked the lady's house. 
Though plundering seemed to whet their appetites, 
Not to appease the wrath we had aroused, 
Which waxed and spread like fierce, devouring flames. 
First kindled from a spark, and bursting soon 
Beyond control. Katharna, sir, has fled ; 
And we may deem ourselves most fortunate 
Can we but quell the furious storm we raised 
To bring about her capture. 

Hanno. 

Pooh, my friend ! 
The mob may be enraged, but dare not move 
As long as I can sway the Senators. 
Heed not their chatter, which assails the ear 
As ripened carrion assaults the nose. 
And though offensive, does as litde harm 
To any one. 

{Enter an insurge?it mob, armed with sticks , 
stones y and weapons.) 



130 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

First Insurgent. 

Come on, we'll seize him now. 

Second Insurgent. 
The vixen has escaped, but here's the fox ! 

( The viob seize Hanno, and also Malchus.) 

Hanno. 

Hold off your hands : I'll pension liberally 
Whoever rescues me ! 

First Insurgent. 

Well done, my men : 
Our fortune favours, there are two of them ! 
And both deserving 

{E7lter MUTHUMBAL.) 

Second Insurgent. 

Oh, look out, my friends : 
There's now a third from the same rookery ! 

{So?7ie of the 7710b 77iove toivards Muthumbal with 
a view to seizi72g hi 771.) 

First Insurgent. 

Come back ! Avoid the scribe, whose scholar's art 
Betokens dealings with the devil. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I3I 

Third Insurgent. 

Yes; 
His restless spirit might disturb our nights ! 

Fourth Insurgent. 
Two victims are enough ! 

MuTHUMBAL {aside). 

I'll call the guard. 

{^Exit MUTHUMBAL.) 

Malchus. 

It was Katharna's crime ; for she bewitched, 

Through fiendish powers bestowed by foreign gods, 

The Suffete's better judgment. We deplore 

As much as you the terrible mischance ; 

But all we may achieve by remedies 

Shall instantly be done ; and now beware, 

For if you do not quickly set us free, 

Swift punishment will reach you as deserved ; 

But let us go, and you shall be excused 

Upon the plea that some misguided zeal 

Had warped your reason until we explained 

That we were blameless but unfortunate. 



When once we're rescued 'twill be different 
And they shall suffer for their insolence. 
The ringleaders by death, 



{Aside >l 



132 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Third Insurgent. 

Yes, comrades, stay : 
Hanno thought best to serve our country's good 
By sending out Hasdrubal and his force ; 
The measure failed, but he was not to blame ; 
That is my view. 

Fourth Insurgent. 

He should have sacrificed 
As he had promised, giving holiday. 
And not by trifling tantalise the god, 
Until he slaughtered all our hardiest troops. 
To recompense him for the public loss 
Of his due honours. 

First Insurgent. 

All might have been well 
If he had sacrificed and kept his word : 
He promised us a general holiday 
And lighter taxes ; yet he changed his plans 
To please his fancy and a foreigner, 
Who might wish ill to Carthage any day ; 
And if 'tis true that she bewitched his mind, 
He was unfortunate but still in fault. 
So he must suffer for the public good. 

Second Insurgent. 

Yes, for he merits death ! 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 33 

Other Insurgents. 

And Malchus too ! 

Second Insurgent. 
Where shall we slay them ? 

Fourth Insurgent. 

They deserve the cross ! 
( The sound of a distant trumpet is heard. ) 

First Insurgent. 

Hark to the trumpet sounding the alarm : 
Soldiers will hurry here to rescue them : 
Time presses ! 

Second Insurgent. 

Bear them to the battlements, 
And hurl the cunning traitors headlong thence ! 

First Insurgent. 
Well said ! Away with them ! 

Other Insurgents {entering hurriedly.) 

The troops ! The troops ! 



134 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Fourth Insurgent. 
Quick, quick ! Lead on ! 

Voices from the Crowd. 

Away ! Lead on ! Away ! 

^Exeunt the mob, dragging Hanno and Malchus. 
Re-enter Mu tkvubal, fo/Zotaed fy an Officer 
leading a compa?ty of soldiers.) 

MuTHUMBAL {excitedfy.) 

I fear the mob, knowing their time is short, 
May do the mischief faster. 

Officer. 

Yet, be sure. 
My men will give a good account of them. 
And all their leaders shall be put to death ; 
Caught thus red-handed, doing violence 
To Hanno and a Suffete's dignity ! 

MUTHUMBAL. 

We must do more, for it behoves to save 
Two valued lives in greatest jeopardy. 

{Exeunt hurriedly , following the crowd.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 135 



Scene IV. 

Throne-room in ^VB.Ayi.'s palace. Courtiers conversing in 
groups^ awaiting the King's arrival. Parihu and 
two courtiers for7n a group in front. 

Parihu. 

Everything was successful ; and the sun 
Shone, with bright hope for these dominions, 
Upon the crowds and pageantry displayed 
In honour of the marriage of the King. 
When, from the temple's porch, their Highnesses 
Came forth to mount the elephants of state, 
How joyously the people thronged around : 
With warmest welcomes offered to our lord 
And lovely Sophonisba. 

First Courtier. 

It is well 
That a fair consort should enjoy the throne : 
Who, with a woman's care and tenderness. 
May gently influence her husband's mind ; 
Ameliorating much the people's lot 
In times of famine and distress. 

( The Hunchback Joins the group.) 

The Hunchback. 

News ! News ! 
My lieges, I bring news 



136 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Second Courtier. 

Surely you jest ! 

The Hunchback. 

If I did make a joke 'twas not my first : 
And if I boasted, I but followed out 
A motto which I framed in early youth ; 
For thus it ran : — 

Your trumpet always blow : 
Unless perchance you can 
Persuade some other man 
To advertise your show. 

Second Courtier. 

You do it well : 
Having had much experience in the art. 

The Hunchback. 

Yes, truly ; most men are too much engaged 
In chanting their own praises, to attend 
Or spare me their assistance for my tune ; 
While some are occupied in picking holes 
In others' coats. 

(^He 710 ds significantly towards the S'Cond courtier , 
li'ho turns away disdainfully?) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 37 

First Courtier. 
Pray, what may be your news ? 

The Hunchback. 

I'll state what is my news, by your kind leave. 

First, Hanno has been slain in a street brawl. 

Or sudden rising of a faction mob. 

Next, Carthage has recalled the lion's brood, 

Hamilcar's sons, to defend Africa 

Against the troops of wily Scipio, 

Whose army threatens at her city gates. 

But word has come of gallant Mago's death. 

From wounds lately received at Genoa. 

He breathed his last when traversing the sea. 

And died : the only thing he ever did 

Of which I disapprove ! 

First Courtier. 

Who brought the news ? 

The Hunchback. 

I heard a messenger inform the King. 

Mago is blameless ; doubtless he'd have lived 

Had it been possible. 

Second Courtier. 

If tired of life. 
You would not have refused his fixed desire, 



138 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

And doomed him without favour or excuse, 
A jaded man to walk a weary world ? 

The Hunchback. 
No one may die unless he wish to live. 

Second Courtier. 
Explain your meaning ? 

The Hunchback. 

For example now : 
If king and country have decreed his death, 
Or send him journeying for the nation's good 
Where rigorous winters mercilessly scourge. 
Fierce scorching suns and winds asphyxiate. 
Or where the niggard earth withholds her yield, 
And exile means destruction. 

Second Courtier {drily). 

Very true ; 
" Happy despatch," his fate might then be called ! 

The Hunchback. 

That hinges on his nationality. 

Look eastward : — How the folks in Russia * 

Despatch whole crowds but never happily I 

Look west : — There lie the favoured British Isles : 

Whose people, always happy, ne'er despatch ! 

At least so say the Punic mariners : 

* N. B. — The anachronism here, as to name and fact, is of course 
intentional. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 39 

Who go, attracted by the mines of tin, 
To barter Carthaginian merchandise 
For the rich ores found in the rocky earth. 
And amber gathered on the Baltic coasts — 
The tempest-beaten ocean's frozen foam ; 
Sure talisman for witchcraft and disease, 
A valued gem and brilliant ornament. 

[A pause, ) 
They deem the British women beautiful, 
Who yet prefer to wed their countrymen 
Rather than mate with any foreigners ; 
But this the Carthaginian sailors hold 
A proof of very strange and faulty taste 
In matrimonial matters. 

First Courtier. 

Yes, no doubt : 
'Tis natural for disappointed men. 
Esteeming highly their own worthiness. 
To wish the heavens were green instead of blue ! 
Pray how does Carthage city prosper ? 

The Hunchback {^significantly). 

0-o-o-oh ! 
Why there the wealthy merchant citizens 
Place profit before all. Believe me, sirs. 
There is no outrage or atrocity 
Which they cannot achieve by means of gold. 
Meanwhile they bear themselves most jauntily, 
As having right and justice on their side : 



140 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

And loudly they proclaim their ends in view 

Are freedom, science, progress, or the good 

Of some one else, but never of themselves. 

What villainies they order they ignore ; 

While the poor tools, through whom they gain their 

ends, 
Have sold themselves to Satan, without choice : 
For hunger's a hard master ! 

First Courtier. 

Very bad ! 

The Hunchback {sententiously). 

Bad for good men : but without carrion 
There'd be no food for crows ! 

Second Courtier. 

You've croaked enough ! 
Have you no good news to dilute the ill ? 

The Hunchback. 

Yes : Hannibal has landed on the coast, 
And now gathers his gallant troops in haste. 
To bar the onward march of Scipio. 

{A third courtier Joins the groups in ti??ie to hear the 
Hunchback's last reply.) 

Third Courtier. 

A pleasing prospect truly : yet there lowers 
On our horizon a portentous cloud ; 
For word is now brought by a courier 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 141 

That Massinissa calls his state to arms. 

But who can tell his secret purposes ? 

Whether he will turn eastward at the news 

That Hannibal is on the Punic coast, 

Or, plunging midst the woods, the swamps and wastes, 

Will he emerge upon us suddenly, 

Hoping to find our army unprepared, 

And snatch a victory through our tardiness ? 

Therefore I say, good sirs, that if no war 

Arise to overshadow all our joy. 

We may esteem it fortunate. 

First Courtier. 

Grave news ; 
But let us hope that fate will favour us : 
And as the mountain draws the thunder-cloud, 
So Hannibal attracts him to the east. 

{Enter Sphax, leading Sophonisba by the hand^ 
with respectful affection. He conducts her to the 
thrones^ where they seat themselves side by side. 
The courtiers bow low as the royal couple pass, 
and then await the King's pleasure?) 

Sphax. 

I thank you for your noble escort, sirs ; 
And that in martial courtesy you brought 
Warriors and elephants to swell my train. 
And now we bid you all, my lords, farewell ! 

{The nobles and courtiers bow. Exeunt all except 
Sphax a;^^ Sophonisba. Sphax continues.) 



142 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

A pleasing duty thus to register 
Throughout the morning many a friendly vow, 
With loyal prayers breathed for our happiness. 
And now, my love, accept from me, I pray, 
My warmest welcome to these ancient halls. 
Which henceforth are your home ; while I remain 
Your firm-devoted lover, friend, and slave, 

{Sfniltng.) 
Your husband and parental guardian. 

{He bows to SOPHONISBA.) 
SOPHONISBA. 

Your kindness moves me, sir, beyond all words 
Which I might feebly use in gratitude ; 
I will implore the gods for health and strength. 
That I may tend you with a daughter's care, 
And bring conjugal happiness 

{Enter a Messenger^ hurriedly. ) 

Messenger. 

My liege, 
I come to warn you thus in hottest haste. 
That Massinissa marches on the coast : 
While his armed galleys lash the sea to foam. 
And bear his lines prolonged upon the waves. 
So eager is his mood, he hastens here 
With cavalry, to strike an earlier blow. 
And has already hurried far ahead 
Of his main army. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I43 

Sphax. 

Youth was ever rash. 
*Tis well ; now summon all the gallant chiefs 
Who led my conquering troops but yesterday 
Against this young marauder. By the aid 
Of the immortal gods, vouchsafed before, 
My host again shall triumph. Send me here 
A laurel-wreath prepared to crown my brows 
On my return, when the good citizens 
Will bring congratulations. 

Messenger. 

Yes, my liege. 

{Exit Messenger.) 

Sphax. 

May his impatience prove his final doom ; 
For, if he hurries on, almost alone. 
To meet him first and then his following troops. 
Is better than to fight with both combined. 

{Enter an Officer bemHng a wreath of later els which 
he hands ^ with an obeisance^ to Sphax, who 
places it upo?i a small table. Exit Officer. ) 

Sphax {to Sophonisba). 

I leave this wreath at hand, and before long 
You shall enhance its worth by placing it 



144 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Upon a conqueror's brow ; and now, farewell ! 
I give you, dearest, into Tanit's care ! 

{^He kisses her fo7'ehead.^ 

SOPHONISBA. 

I pray good fortune may attend you, sir ! 

{^Exit Sphax hurriedly.) 
I would that dear Katharna were with me, 
Then I should feel less lonely when the King 
Is absent at the wars or else the chase, 
As doubtless he will often need to be. 
And when the urgent matters are complete 
That called her back to Carthage on the news 
Of Hanno's death, she will return again ; 
For as she journeyed hence she pledged her word. 
May she come soon ! I must have patience now. 

{Exit) 



Scene V. 

The garde ?is of Hannibal's palace at Carthage. Enter 
Katharna, disguised as a fortune-teller. Her hair 
falls down over the forehead : and as her shawl ^ which 
passes over her headj is draw7i across a considerable 
portion of her face^ little more than the eyes remain 
uncovered, 

Katharna {turning suddenly^ . 

Ah, Hannibal approaches ! Would that now 
I might make myself known, perhaps retrieve 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I45 

Our happiness, in this one interview ; 

Bat I must wait till cruel Rome is crushed. 

The object must be followed while there's hope : 

When none remains, I'll bide till peace is won. 

So in the coming interview with him, 

Help me, ye gods, to bear an even mien 

And curb emotion ! 

i^Enter Hannibal, on his way to the Senate. 
Katharna addresses him.) 
Mighty Hannibal, 
The noble champion of Africa 

And Carthage ! Though Rome still is unsubdued, 
It fires my ardent blood to think of all 
The many glorious triumphs of your wars ! 
O would that I had been at least a man, 
To join the march, the bivouac, the fight. 
Or offer help as humblest of your slaves : 
To live or die as careless fate might choose. 
Yet highly favoured in the sacrifice : 
As trodden mounds are honoured if they bore 
A chief whose mind controlled winged Victory ! 

Hannibal. 

Good woman, yours are worthy words indeed : 
So speak true patriots ; yet your garb denotes 
An alien origin ? 

Katharna. 

'Tis true ; I come 
From Tingis and the Gates of Hercules, 



146 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

To ply my trade of telling fortunes here, 
Attracted by the Carthaginian wealth ; 
But midst the busy throng I dwell alone : 

{She falters.) 
No father's care nor husband's loving arm 
Protects, sustains, and guides me on my way. 

{She recovers composure.) 
Yet if you wish convincing evidence 
Of my deep knowledge of the darker powers, 
Know that your feud with Rome, like the forked tongue 
Of the fierce cobra, bears a double point ! 
While one is urged by patriotic zeal, 
The other burns to wreak a dire revenge 
For private wrongs inflicted on a friend. 

(Hannibal, who was beginning to move away, starts, 
turns, and scrutinises her for a mo?nent. ) 

Hannibal. 

It may be as you say, for who records 
The complex workings of his inner mind ? 

{A pause.) 
Do you know aught of those of whom you hint ? 

Katharna. 

I am not yet allowed to raise the veil 

That shrouds the future of the one you love. 

{She pauses : then aside.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I47 

He hazards no denial that his flame 
Still burns for me ! 

{Aloud,) 

But shining through the gloom 
And fiercely threatening turmoil of the times, 
With Scipio gathering his troops and fleets 
To war with Carthage on her native coasts : 
I see a day appear when once again, 
Your grasp shall press the hand of her you love. 

Hannibal {earnestly). 

Great Melkarth grant it ! Now I must be gone : 
The Senate waits. 

{Exit Hannibal.) 

Katharna. 

Thank heaven that he is true ! 

{She sinks on her knees, burying her face 
in her hands. Curtain?) 



148 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



Scene VI. 

Reception-room in Sphax's palace. Enter Massixissa 
hurriedly^ followed by Sophonisba : he sees the 
laurel-wreath, 

Massixissa. 

A laurel-wreath prepared ! Most courteous ! 

{He hands the wreath to Sophoxisba, and bends his 
head down so that she may adjust it : thus he does 
not observe Jur look of surprise and pain as she 
complies with his request!) 

Madam, it happened thus : — The rival host, 

Led on by Sphax himself, had hurried out 

To take advantage of my scattered march : 

Through haste, neglecting search for ambushes ; 

But I was warned in time by trusty scouts. 

And met their front with quickly gathered force : 

Except a chosen legion, which I sent. 

Concealed by woods, onto the southern side ; 

Where it rushed forth upon the struggling flank 

Of the foes, shaken by their fight with me 

In front, hurling them northwards on the coast ; 

There from my boats and ships the arrows showered, 

To slay them fast in spite of helm and shield : 

Until the fall of Sphax, who sought in vain 

To rally once again his shattered troops, 



I 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 49 

But died a glorious death and sealed the day, 
My victory. 

SoPHONiSBA {weeping). 

My lord, excuse my grief ; 
Alas, I mourn the venerable Sphax : 
Who e'er was tender in his love for me. 
And chivalrous. 

Massinissa. 

If that be so, indeed. 
Then for your sake, dear lady, I as well 
Regard his memory with gratitude. 
And yet you were the prize whose influence 
Inspired me to this triumph, otherwise 
I would not have tried fate again so soon. 
Against a foe of late victorious : 
For had I failed, my smaller realm was lost 
By annexation to his territory ; 
But now his states are mine, this is my home ; 
I need but your consent, for which I crave. 
To crown my happiness on such a day : 
Rewarding my devotion and my love 
With bright connubial blessings. 

SoPHONiSBA [in gefitle entreaty). 

Grant me time, 
That I may give consideration due 



150 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

To such a weighty matter ; and excuse 

My lack of ready words to thank your grace, 

Amid the echo of your questioning. 

Massinissa [iinploringly). 
Speak now the word that will decide my fate ! 

[He sinks on his knees before her and extends his 
hands to receive hers!) 

SoPHONiSBA [aside), 

My grief for Sphax would prompt me to decline, 
But duty bids me win a sword from Rome. 

[She approaches and places her hand in his.) 

My lonely weakness yields 

Massinissa. 

Thank heaven for that ! 
Madam, if you consent, that is enough ; 
I am most joyful. 

SOPHONISBA. 

Now I beg of you 
For courteous delay : from reverence 
To Sphax's memory. 



Hannibal and katharna 151 



Massinissa. 



Madam, I agree ; 
But pardon my impatience when I hope 
The time may be as short as possible : 
And deem it a just tribute to your charms 
That I should wish an early marriage day. 



{Curtain-) 



ACT V. 
Scene I. 

Before the tent of SciPio, i7i the Roman camp near 
Carthage j on one side there stands a small stone 
altar to yupiter. Enter from the tent Scipio. 

SciPio. 

That Massinissa is ambitious, young, 
And fickle, well I know. He shall be plied 
With specious arguments and promises ; 
But if they fail or prove to lack in force, 
Then I will feign the supernatural 
And win by necromancy, in pretence. 

{^Enter a Magician from Egypt ^ ushered in by 
an Officer^ who withdraws.) 

Magician {sole7nnly). 

You summoned me in haste, and I am here. 
Prepared to do your bidding, and command 
Dark spirits in the earth and ocean deep 
To war in your behalf, and exercise 
Strong influence upon the minds of men, 
Till they believe what you desire. 

152 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 53 

SCIPIO. 

Good sir, 
I readily accept your services, 
And give you this in earnest of reward ; 

(SciPio gives him 7?ioney.) 
Yet fourfold greater shall your guerdon be, 
If you successfully achieve the task 
As I require : and guard its secresy ; 
But save your boast of wielding magic powers 
To dazzle other minds than Scipio's : 

{S?niling.) 
Reserve it for moon-gazers and the like, 
Who, finding not enough of mystery 
In the plain order of the universe, 
Conceive that feeble man can thwart its rules 
And make its powers obey his wanton will 
By a mere turn of thought ! But time draws on : 
Then know that presently, ere twilight falls. 
There comes a native prince to visit me, 
Whom I would fain impress by mystic lore 
To deem me as the chosen of the gods, 
So that he may adopt my policy. 
Each time I wish for a portentous sign 
I will approach and touch this altar-stone ; 
"Which being as a signal meant for you. 
While you stand watching, hidden on the hill : 
Then wield the powers which fiction gives the gods, 
And burst the rocks above with chemicals, 
The make of which magicians know full well, 
Instructed by the wizards of Cathay : 



154 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

The sound will echo through the mountain-tops, 
That all may think Jove thunders in his wrath 
At what I disapprove. 

The Magician {smiling). 

It shall be done 
As you desire, my lord. 

SciPio. 

I can rely 

Upon your skill and judgment. 

[Exit Magician. Enter an Officer.) 

SciPio. 

Well, what news ? 
How say the scouts and spies in their reports ? 

Officer. 

My lord, they bring no further word as yet, 

Beyond that first received ; that Hannibal 

Consolidates his force and bides his time, 

Making no movement from his vantage ground 

Under protection of the city walls ; 

But levying, arming, drilling, day by day. 

Fresh bands of citizens unused to war. 

And who would need some years of discipline 

To make them worthy foemen. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 55 

SCTPIO. 

It is well : 
I have foreseen this and prepared my plans ; 
Give orders that we march at break of day 
To wait the enemy on Zama's plain. 
Send the Chief Augur to me. 



Officer. 



Yes, my lord. 

{^Exit Officer^ 

SciPio. 

Thus, by my challenge, I may tempt him on, 

So far beyond the shelter of his walls, 

When he is ready to encounter me. 

That if I conquer I'll destroy his force ; 

While if he hesitates to take the gage 

That, in advancing, I hurl at his feet. 

His troops will be downcast, and mine inspired. 

And so my way prepared for victory. 

{^Enter an Officer ushering in the Chief Augur : 
the Officer then withdraws^ 

Augur. 

I come, my lord, to learn what you command ; 
Which, be my head the forfeit, shall be done 
As you direct, 



156 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SCIPIO. 

To-morrow we move hence 
To Zama's plains : there offer sacrifice 
To all the gods, but most to Jupiter ; 
And having scrutinised the burning flesh, 
Proclaim yourself enabled to foretell 
That victory will attend us in the war : 
This quickly spreading, passed from mouth to mouth, 
Will raise high confidence amongst the troops, 
Making our triumph all the more assured ; 
For faith gives courage and begets the strength 
To firmly strive to reach the wished-for goal, 
Till failure withers on its shrunken stalk. 
And bright success becomes a certain prize. 
I close in battle with full confidence : 
My Roman citizens are soldiers born ; 
And every one of them has volunteered — 
A system which selects the bold and strong. 
And those best suited to a martial life. 
Besides, the offering of his services 
Makes of a man a hero in his heart. 
Raising the warrior on a pinnacle. 
Till emulation, spreading through the land. 
Fills with ripe courage timid breasts at last. 
So J know well my gallant men are staunch ; 
Yet Hannibal no longer leads the Gauls 
And Spanish troops, who fought in Italy, 
But a mere rabble hastily equipped. 
Composed of native Carthaginians : 
Good merchandisers and not men of war, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA J 5/ 

Compelled to join the ranks against their will. 
Thus cowed by being driven, and made to loathe 
The warfare which by nature they disliked, 
And hitherto ingloriously shunned 
By paying foreigners to fight for them, 
Until the canker softness so ingrew, 
Sapping their manliness and energies 
As dry-rot crumbles e'en the firmest wood. 
That now it threats to overwhelm their state, 
Which seeks protection from their palsied arms, 
And lies defenceless through its sons' decay. 
So prophesy they fail. 

Augur. 

I will, my lord. 
{Exit Augur, Enter a Roman Officer?) 

Officer. 
My lord, King Massinissa has arrived. 

SciPio. 
Conduct his Highness now, to me. 

Officer. 

Yes, sir. 

{Exit Officer^ who presently ushers in King 
Massinissa, and then withdraws.) 



158 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SCIPIO. 

Ah, Massinissa, you are welcome here ! 

And I have needed much to speak with you ; 

Therefore I told my wish by messenger, 

Which you with courtesy have gratified. 

Word of your marriage has been brought to me, 

Which I would fain regard as happy news 

And see alone in it domestic joys ; 

But you have wed the daughter of our foe, 

A Carthaginian general, who fell 

Not long ago in arms against our power : 

This saps the root of Roman confidence, 

A tree that hitherto has sheltered you 

From the wild storms of Carthaginian ire, 

Which menace neighbouring countries. 



Massinissa. 



She is the gentlest lady in the world, . 
Without a thought of strife or politics : 
Domestic joys and cares engross her life ; 
Her household is her universe. 



Scipio. 

Indeed ? 
It may be so ; or else perhaps you see. 
As husbands always should, with partial eyes 



Scipio, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 59 

So pardon bluntness from an older man 

When he desires your good and speaks for Rome. 

(SciPio leads Massinissa to the open 
door of the tent.) 
Behold within this tent, upon the right, 
The bright regalia of a sovereign ; 
And on the left a gentle dove, but high 
Above it, perched upon a human skull, 
There flaps and croaks a raven : omen dread. 
Rome offers you the choice between the sides 
As symbolised. 

Massinissa {indignantly). 
That I forsake my wife ? 

SciPio. 

Or forfeit Rome*s support, and lose your throne. 
Think patiently. 

Massinissa. 

But surely Rome will hold 
Some other pledge of my fidelity : 
Sparing me this most cruel sacrifice, 
And claiming my eternal gratitude ? 

SciPio. 

Would that I might relax this exigeance ! 
I must obey the Senate's stern commands. 



l6o HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

As its true bondsman, though I rule a host : 
It left no other option. 

Massinissa. 

Then, alas ! 
If that be so I must take time to think : 
And having well considered all your words. 
Will send an early answer to you here. 
Conveying my decision. 

SciPio {aside). 

No, indeed ! 
That has an ugly sound ; for possibly 
If he returns to ponder on his course 
Within the influence of his lady's charms. 
He might despatch the wrong reply to me. 

{To Massinissa.) 
The Senate waits your final answer now. 
Which I must send by special messenger ; 
But let me warn you that the gods above, 
Whose will I know by frequent sacrifice. 
Close studying of omens, books of lore. 
And converse with those skilled in augury, 
Regard askance your hesitation shown ; 
But if you wish for certain proof of this. 
Such as is seldom granted by the gods 
Except to chosen, highly-favoured men. 
Torn by perplexity, proclaim aloud — 
You disregard the words of Scipio. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l6l 

Massinissa [loudly), 

" I disregard what Scipio advocates ! " 

(SciPio lays his hand on the altar ^ and a noise as of 
distant thunder in the hills is heard!) 

Scipio [solemnly) » 

The gods are angry : hark to Jove the king ! 

Massinissa [uneasily^. 

*Tis ominous indeed, but may be chance : 
And yet how thunders thus a cloudless sky ? 

[Aside) 
I will essay again, but dread the test. 

[Raising his voice ) 
** I disregard the words of Scipio ! '' 

(Scipio gives the signal^ and again the sound of 
thunder in the mountains is heard?) 

Alas ! there is no doubt : no choice remains 
For me. 

Scipio. 

You hear the voice of Jupiter, 
Raised high in wrath at such perversity ; 
Praise him for uttering a warning tone, 
To bid you save your fortune. 



1 62 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Massinissa. 

Scipio, 
I thank you for your proofs of friendliness ; 
Although the matter wounds me deep indeed, 
And seals the mournful doom of one I love ; 
For ne'er could Massinissa send his wife 
To roam the world with her unguarded charms, 
And tempt, like a sweet flower, the hungry bee. 

{^He weeps ^ 

I have no heart to commune more with you. 

{^Exit Massinissa.) 

Scipio. 

A sorry business, and unchivalrous. 

To injure thus a gentle, lovely dame. 

E'en for the vital interests of Rome. 

I would the stream had run the other way ! 

As after victory in the Spanish wars, 

I rescued my fair prisoners from all harm, 

Restoring them to friends and relatives. 

Who thus I gained to fight upon our side. 

And, by goodwill, retained them firmly bound. 

With Massinissa it was different : 

I had no means to win his gratitude 

And hold him longer than his whim might choose, 

While stern necessity forbade delay. 

If I had not persuaded him at last, 

I would have had him seized within the camp, 

A hostage for his countrymen's good faith ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 63 

Or else he might have joined with Hannibal, 
Instead of fighting side by side with me, 
As he was pledged to do : but even now 
'Tis touch and go, I hold him by a thread ! 

{Exit SciPio.) 



Scene II. 

Reception-room in the palace ^/Massinissa. Sophonisba 
seated. Enter the Hunchback, 

Sophonisba. 

Good sir, I called you, for I'm very dull, 
Since absent friends have left me long at home ; 
And Time, which often flies, has closed his wings, 
To sleep or lag upon his track. 

The Hunchback. 

Madam, 
In truth I willingly would do my best, 
But judge the ailm'ent difficult to cure ; 
Although a jester's speech may harbour wit, 
It is at best a sorry substitute 
For words that might be whispered by a king. 
Permit me to send Yahwa to you now : 
For he has power to draw soft symphonies 
From the cold metal chords that bind the lyre, 
To fill the empty air with harmony. 



164 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SOPHONISBA. 

A good suggestion : do so. 

{^Exit the Hunchback^ a7id presently enter Yahwa, 
carrying his guitar!) 

SOPHONISBA. 

Yahwa, tune 
A roundelay for me. 

Yahwa. 

Madam, I pray, 
What subject does your fancy indicate, 
On which I may compose a melody. 
With the best prospect that my muse may please ? 

(SOPHONISBA poitits to a bird in a cage.) 

SOPHONISBA. 

Sing of that feathered songster. 

Yahwa. 

Willingly. 
{He sings the following song.) 

Song of the Caged Bird. 

[First come eight musical bars of the biras song.) 

I. 

I sing to you, fair mistress mine, 

And, from my playful song. 
Ne'er would you deem I could repine 

Or count the hours too long. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 65 

* 
But still my thoughts to forests turn, 

Where my wild youth was passed ; 

With verdant fields and limpid burn, 

Fond memories to the last. 

{^Here follow eight musical bars of the bird's song,) 

II. 

With kindness fed and warmly housed, 

I pass the tranquil day ; 
And view the merry throng carouse 
Or wend their joyous way. 

But still my thoughts to forests turn, &c. 
[Here follow eight musical bars of the bird's song.) 

III. 

Perchance men envy me my lot 

Within this cage of gold ; 
That I'm a prisoner have forgot : 

Gilt bars, like steel, can hold ! 

But still my thoughts to forests turn, &c. 

SOPHONISBA. 

It is a sweet but melancholy strain : 
Nor have I thought, with all his flood of song, 
The captive might regret his woods and fields ; 
But 'tis not now too late : bring here the cage. 
And through the window he shall soon be free ! 

(Yahwa brings the cage : Sophonisba takes it to the 

window and opens the door of the cage^ but the 

bird does not try to escape!) 



1 66 HAXXIBAL AXD KATHARNA 

Yahwa. 

He will not quit so kind a mistress ; see ! 
And now the little warbler sings again. 

(Here follow eight musical bars of flu lnrd*s sang.) 

IV. 

Were I to seek ray former home, 
All would be strange and new ; 

I should regret this gilded dome, 
And grieve at leaving you I 

But still my thoughts to forests turn, 6cc. 

SOPHONISBA. 

I love the bird, and had it flown away, 
It would have left a void within my heart ; 
And yet I gave it liberty to go : 
Indeed forced ser\ice is a thing less sweet 
Than duty rendered as afiFection's fruit ; 
And yet, perhaps, he lightly thinks of me : 
By the dull force of merest habitude 
Clings to the present, but regrets the past. 
No, no ! he gives me proof by staying here. 
Poor bird : it is not fair to doubt his love. 
I thank you, Yahwa, for your song : now go, 
The time is ripe for serious business. 

{£xil Yahwa : t/ien enter an Officer of the Palace^ 

Officer. 

Madam, a messenger has come in haste, 
To bring you greetings on Camilla's part. 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 6/ 

She braved the sea, borne in a Punic barque, 
And landed safely on the neighbouring coast ; 
From whence she hastens, and will soon arrive 
To wait upon your Highness. 

SOPHONISBA. 

Sir, 'tis well : 
The lady is most welcome ; make it known 
That I will greet her here. 

Officer. 

Madam, I will. 

{Exit Officer.) 

SOPHONISBA. 

I am delighted at her quick return ; 
She is a valued friend at any time. 
And doubly so amid my loneliness. 

[A pause.) 
No news as yet from Massinissa's camp 
Since he was summoned to meet Scipio. 

{A pause : then pettishly.) 
It is not like his use of gallantry, 
As frequently he would send messengers. 
Bearing no news, but compliments of love. 
And seeking favours of remembrances. 



I dread such long-continued absences ; 
For Sphax, who issued in full confidence, 
Could meet his doom in such a little space ; 
Then, if ill-fortune might accumulate. 



{A pause. ) 



1 68 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Till every day should hatch a viper-brood 
Of death, disease, mishaps, and penalties, 
Such cruel reckonings would crush me soon. 



{A pause.) 



How gallantly the aged warrior 
Bore his bold chieftainship that fatal day, 
And dreamed of triumph in his kingly halls 
The gods forbade he should enjoy again. 
Wise is the providence that hides our fate. 
And leaves to every one the boon of hope ! 

{Enter Parihu.) 

Parihu. 

Your Highness, now a messenger has come. 

Sent by King Massinissa hurriedly ; 

He begs an early audience of your Grace 

In order to explain his master's wish, 

And learn your answer to the King's request. 

SoPHONiSBA {dubiously). 

What is the purport of the messages ? 

Parihu. 

As yet I have not gleaned a single word : 

For, madam, this strange man is reticent ; 

Of sour and sombre mien, all clothed in black, 

Like a dark priest of Moloch on the days 

Of human sacrifice ; it seems to me 

The mournful garb enshrouds a gloomier wight ! 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 69 

SOPHONISBA. 

Admit him, and his errand shall be known 
Without delay. 

{Exit Parihu, who returns with the Messenger^ 
and then ivithdraws to a little distance. The 
Messenger approaches Sophonisba and bends 
low before her ; he then stands erect and sile?it, 
waiting for her to speak, and holding in his 
hand a small casket.) 

Sophonisba. 
What tidings from my liege ? 

Messenger. 

Your Highness, if I had my earnest wish, 
I would have shunned this painful embassy ; 
Though proud to render humble services 
In any way. 

Sophonisba {anxiously) . 

Say quickly how it lies ? 

Messenger. 

Great Scipio has quarrelled with the King, 
Because he wed the daughter of a foe, 
Linking himself with enemies of Rome. 



170 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SOPHONISBA. 

But surely, when 'tis known that I avoid 
The stormy ocean men call politics, 
And only seek to give my husband peace, 
Then Rome could not behold offence in me ? 

Messenger. 

I would it were so, madam ; but, alas, 
Scipio has spoken ! 

SoPHONiSBA (proudly). 

Pray remember, sir. 
Here Massinissa rules, not Scipio ! 

Messenger. 

Madam, the King has sent a lethal cup, 

i^He takes a metal cup out of the case which he is 
holdings and unscrews the lid.) 
And bids you drink it for the country's sake ; 

(SoPHONiSBA buries her face in her hands 
with a gesture of despair!) 
Which soon must perish, left without allies. 
Under the iron heel of Punic might, 
Or else be seized by Rome victorious. 
He bids a sad farewell, and prays you act 
With the high courage of your warrior race ; 
Worthy of them, and worthy of yourself — 
Wife of two kings of Africa ! 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA IJTI 

(SoPHONiSBA recovers herself J she makes a gesture 
to the Messenger to withdraw a little^ and he 
retires to the background^ where he stands with 
his black cloth head-dress^ which is bound rou7id 
his heady drawn across his face so as almost to 
conceal it entirely, except the eyes.) 

SoPHONiSBA (aside). 

Alas! 
Doomed by my husband, why then longer live 
When all that made life happy has decayed ? 
I might escape ; but who would rescue me 
From being captured and brought back again ? 
Of all my kin, alone my mother lives : 
But she is old and powerless to protect. 

(Parihu respectfully approaches Sophonisba.) 

Parihu. 

Your Highness, pardon me as one of years 
Spent in the faithful service of King Sphax, 
Whose spirit prompts me now to offer you 
Such counsel as may lie within my power, 
To meet the troubles that assail your Grace ; 
And stand revealed, in spite of all disguise. 
To one who has seen many a turn of fate 
In good or evil fortune. 

Sophonisba. 

Parihu, 
I thank you most sincerely for your words, 



1/2 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

But I cannot disclose the evil news 
Which suddenly has overwhelmed me. 

Parihu. 

No: 

I would not press you to declare the cause, 
As you desire to guard its secresy ; 
But if by chance you should have need of me — 
Believe it no mere vaunting when I say — 
My arm though old has not quite lost its power 
To wield the sword it bore in many a fight ; 
Nor have I yet forgot the art of war ; 
And if your Highness were in danger now, 
Whoever he might be that threatens you. 
Speak but one word and all the realm shall rise 
And guard your safety with its dearest blood ; 
Even to place you on a single throne, 
And conquer freedom for our state again, 
So lately lost when Sphax's power succumbed 
Through over-confidence. 

SOPHONISBA. 

Excuse me, sir : 
I'm somewhat hard of hearing, and my ear 
Does not record your words. You may withdraw. 

{Exit Parihu, after bowing. Sophonisba 

soliloquises.) 

His duty or ambition bade him give 
Desperate advice in desperate circumstance ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 73 

But I will never plunge the realm in blood 

And bring upon it miseries untold ; 

Nor would I quit the honourable path 

That I have strictly followed through my life, 

And seek salvation in rebellion. 

My husband bids me immolate myself, 

To save our subjects from the injury 

Wrought by my marriage, unawares to me, 

Which tempts the Romans to abandon them 

To suffer servitude, rapine, and death ; 

And I alone have power to rescue them. 

Both wifely instinct prompts me to obey. 

And queenly duty bids the sacrifice : 

My father's blood, which thrills through all my veins. 

Impels and nerves me to the noble deed ! 

{A pause.) 
Shall I await Camilla's coming? No : 
For she might shake my rightly-formed resolve. 
What parting message shall I send the King ? 

{She draws herself to her full height^ and^ 
turnings addresses the Messenger?) 

Bring here the cup, and tell my lord the King 
That when I drained it thus I spoke of him : — 
My death seems to be following somewhat close 
Upon my wedding to his majesty ! 

{The Messenger^ who has approached^ hands her the 
cup : she drinks a7id dies. Exit the Messefiger, 
Prese7itly e7iter an Officer conducting Katharna ; 
the Officer hurries to the prostrate form of 

SOPHONISBA.) 



1/4 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Officer. 
Alas, the Queen ! 

Katharna. 
What new catastrophe ? 

Officer. 

She's dead ! I'll call for help. 

{^Exit Officer^ hurriedly^ 

Katharna. 

Ill-fated day 
When first I urged her on to wed with Sphax 
And quit her peaceful Carthaginian home ! 

(^ pause. ) 
Alas, alas, she's gone ! My friend, who bore 
The fairest face : the gentlest, truest heart. 
That ever warmed for me and was unchanged. 

(Katharna weeps. Re-enter the Officer with 
the Messe?iger of the King. ) 

Officer. 

This man was latest with her majesty. 
And gained an audience as a messenger 
Sent by King Massinissa. 

Katharna {to the Messe^iger). 

Sir, explain : 
What know you of our lady's death ? 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l/S 

Messenger. 

Madam, 
The King commissioned me to bring her doom 
Within this cup ; and she drank willingly : 
His marriage caused mistrust of him at Rome, 
And as he had wed a Carthaginian dame 
Within whose veins there flowed a warrior's blood. 
Here is my warrant and the royal seal. 

{^He draws from his bosom a parchment : unfolds 
and holds it, offering it for the inspection of 
Katharna and the Officer; the latter takes it ^ 
and scrutinises it with signs of astonishine7it. 
The Officer and Messenger withdraw to one 
side, and appear to discuss the docwnent for a 
moment or two ; the Officer then hurries out as 
if to call assistance, and the Messenger follows 
him slowly?^ 

Katharna {^soliloquises). 

Alas ! that all the vines I plant with care 

Are killed by failure's cold and blackening frost. 

Before they bear the fruit, yielding the wine 

To slake my thirst for vengeance on fell Rome ! 

But this was one of fortune's cruellest blows ; 

For look beneath the surface of events. 

And note how narrow was the turning-point 

Where Sophonisba chose between the two : 

Whether to die or triumph after all. 

She might have saved herself and won the day. 



HAXXIBAL AXD KATHARNA 



Holding the country for the Punic cause ; 

Freeing it rightly from a miscreant. 

Who by his treacher)' and cowardice 

Had proved unworthy of his throne and her ; 

Although it needed desperate device, 

And recklessness to human suflFering, 

To win the country in such threatening straits ; 

No less than to rebel and raise the torch, 

Setting this peaceful kingdom in a blaze : 

Bringing the misery of civil war 

Upon a country that she died to save. 

The plan would not occur to one so kind, 

Or, coming to the mind, be cast aside ; 

And yet it promised richly for success : 

The state was ready for the smallest spark 

To fire the train its recent conquest laid ; 

And all within it longed to burst the chains 

That Massinissa had so lately bound. 

Making the great the captive of the small. 

Ah ! if I had arrived but yesterday, 

And not a day too late, it had been done ! 

But grief is useless and a waste of time : 

Yet, to atone for Sophonisba's blood — 

Alas ! I fear it is beyond my power, 
And must be left to time and Nemesis. 
But I have business calling me away : 
No dainty dallying with needlework, 
Or tuning softly to a passing whim 
Upon the blithe guitar that once I loved. 

{S/i^ speaks faster, from exdtemeni.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 77 

At least I scorn to send my friends to death 
And hide myself in base security ; 
The fateful battle still impends between 
The hosts of Hannibal and Scipio : 

(^Raising her voice, from enthusiastic excitement^ 

There will I hie ; and on my Roman foe, 
E*en with a woman's hand, will draw the bow ! 

^She raises her hand in the air, a?id rushes 
out. Curtain. ) 



Scene III. 

A grove upon the plain of Zama, midway betwee?t the 
Roman and Carthaginian camp. Enter Hannibal 
and Gisco. 

Hannibal. 

It would have proved a wiser plan for us 
Had I remained to fight in Italy, 
Allowing Scipio to waste his strength 
Against our massive walls, behind whose crest 
The citizens, unwarlike and unskilled. 
Would have been better suited to defence 
Than in the open against well-trained troops : 
But Carthage ordered, and I have obeyed. 
Now if I can postpone the battle hour. 
Gaining more time in which to drill the men, 
It would be in our favour ; so I sought 



178 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

This interview, in which to try my power : 
AMiether I may cajole or bribe the foe, 
To yield part of the vantage that he holds 
Through being ready earlier than we. 
But here is Scipio — 

(Enter Scipio, attended ty an Officer.) 

Welcome, general ; 

Renowned for courteous enlightenment ! 

Scipio. 

I greet you, Hannibal, of world-wide fame 
For martial deeds. 

Hanmbal. 

Shall we converse alone ? 
Scipio. 



If you prefer it. 



Haxxibal. 



Certainly I do : 
Go, Gisco, to my escort ; bid it wait 
Upon the border of the wood. 



Gisco. 

Yes, sir. 

{Exit Gisco.) 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 79 

SciPio {to his Officer), 

Pray join the guard : I will return alone, 
After this meeting. 

Roman Officer. 

Yes, your Excellency. 

{^Exit Officer^ 

Hannibal. 

I am a man whose trade is war, not words, 

So pardon my simplicity of speech. 

Here stand our mighty nations face to face : 

Why should two lions fight, not share the spoil ? 

Let us divide the world between our powers. 

But live henceforth in peace and amity. 

We recognise your sovereignty in Spain, 

Sardinia, Sicily, and Italy : 

The rest remains for us beyond your sphere 

Of action. 

SciPio. 

Sir, I have no power to treat, 
Much less conclude, a compact which requires 
The Senate's seal. 

Hannibal. 

Then send a messenger, 
Reporting the fair offers which I make, 
And asking a decision. 



l8o HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

SCIPIO. 

No, my lord ; 
It would need time, and in the interim 
Your skilful preparations march apace. 
And your untrained recruits might learn their trade. 

Hannibal. 

What matters that, if the result be peace ? 

You benefit your country and my own, 

Stirring with patriotic gratitude 

The heart of one who lives to serve her cause : 

In recognising this, name but the gift. 

For I possess the power to richly grant. 

So if your wishes lie within its range. 

To ask is to receive. 

SciPio {turning away). 

Enough, enough ! 
For honour bids me to decline at once, 

{A pause.) 
Though I perforce must pardon you the words : 
Knowing your stress of patriotic zeal 
And dire necessity. 

Hannibal. 

I thank you, sir, 
For your forbearance ; I meant no ofiFence. 
Think well of our alliance while there's time, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l8l 

And what you risk if you encounter us ; 

My troops will fight like furies, for they guard 

Their city, families, their fame and wealth. 

SciPio. 
We have discussed the matter fully, sir. 

Hannibal. 

Can you propose more fitting terms ? 

SciPio. 

My lord, 
I know the warlike skill of Hannibal, 
But Carthaginians are unused to arms : 
There are no means by which we could agree. 

Hannibal (impatiently). 

Time presses, sir ; adieu ! 

SciPio {coldly). 

My lord, adieu ! 

^^Exit Hannibal.) 

SciPio. 

Hear everything — say little as may be ; 
That is the plan for generals in the field. 
Although he did not learn much from my words, 
He told me nothing that I did not know. 

{^Exit SciPio.) 



1 82 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Scene IV. 

The public gardens at Carthage, Enter Hercta, 
followed by Muthumbal. 

Hercta. 
Come quickly, dearest ! 

Muthumbal ^playfully). 

It is easy said ; 
But I am not so light and fleet of foot 
As in old days when I ran after you, 
A happy youth in Spain. 

Hercta. 

Well, well, my dear, 
'Tis an advantage surely that you wed 
With a young wife, who fills you with new life ! 

Muthumbal. 
Then she returns my constant compliments. 

Hercta. 

I would 'twere possible I could enjoy 

This happiness without uneasiness 

For my dear mistress ; but at last there comes 

Katharna*s messenger ! 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 83 
MUTHUMBAL. 

I hope he brings 
Good news this time. 

{Enter a Messenger?) 

Messenger {to Hercta). 

Madam, well met indeed ! 
I come from Dame Katharna with her love 
And kindly greetings, besides messages : 
That on Queen Sophonisba's sudden death 
She journeyed forth to join the Punic host 
About to close in fight with Scipio. 
If victory crown its efforts, then all's well, 
And she will soon return, meeting you here. 
To dwell in Carthage. 

Hercta. 

But where will she go 
In case defeat should overtake our troops, 
Which may the gods forbid ! 

Messenger. 

She did not say. 
In that event, how she would save herself : 
Katharna spoke the few and simple words 
That I have mentioned. Now I must return 
To join my lady on the battlefield. 



1 84 HAXNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

She follows near the archers of the guard ; 
In her magician's dress remains unknown, 
Unhindered, and unhelped. 

Hercta. 

I'll go with you, 
If, dear Muthumbal, you will give me leave. 
I might be useful to my lady there, 
And even yet persuade her to return 
Here, safe within these walls. 

Messenger. 

Consider well : 
'Tis a rough journey for a woman, though. 
And dangers of worst kinds beset the path 
Of her who wanders near a battlefield, 
\Miere fate decides which way the tide shall flow 
That may engulf her in its struggling waves : 
So pause ere you adventure. 

Kercta. 

Thank you, sir. 
For all your information and ad\'ice ; 
I heed no risk. Muthumbal, may I go ? 

Muthumbal. 

I will not Otter any obstacle 

To what you wish to do in faithfulness ; 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 85 

But rather will myself accompany you, 
So that you may not lack ready defence 
In case of difficulty. 

Hercta. 

Then you earn 
My deepest gratitude. 

Messenger. 

Let it be so ; 
If you have both determined, we will start 
After the shortest possible delay. 
Thus we may reach the Carthaginian host 
To-morrow evening ere the sun be set : 
Though before then the battle may be fought 
For which the armies gathered on the plains 
Of Zama. 

Hercta. 

Sir, we cannot go too soon. 
My preparations will be quickly made ; 
And yours, Muthumbal ? 

MUTHUMBAL. 

All within an hour. 

{Exeunt,) 



1 86 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 



Scene V. 

A road leading from the field of Zama towards Carthage : 
immediately after the battle^ arid overthrow of the 
Carthaginiaiis. Enter Katharna, wounded^ fro??i 
the battlefield. She wears her magician s dress ^ and 
carries a bow in her hand^ with a quiver of arrows 
slung over her shoulder. 

Katharna. 

Like a spent arrow I have sped my course. 

{^She staggers and sinks upon the ground in a swoon 
Enter Hannibal and QrV^zo fro7n the battlefield,) 

Hannibal. 

Our walls must answer for the victory now ; 

As Scipio failed to capture Utica, 

So Carthage must resist and may escape. 

Then word has come from bold Antiochus 

That he collects his troops to lend us aid. 

But who lies here ? a female warrior 

So sorely wounded in our country's cause 1 

{He approaches Katharna.) 
It seems this flow of blood foretells her doom. 
I now recall that we met recently, 
As I was passing to the Senate-house, 
And I was influenced by her eloquence. 
Her sayings blazed with patriotic fire 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 8/ 

When she expressed her hopes of victory 
For Carthage, Afric's champion against Rome. 
And though the well-mouthed solemn babblings 
Of augurs, wizards, witches, all the crew, 
Move me but little by their drolleries. 
She hinted matters which impressed my mind 
With a vague feeling that she knew far more 
Than what she said : unlike the rest of them, 
Who blab on hazard more than they can know. 
And further, it appeared her voice and mien 
Recalled the past to me — as some old tune 
Revives the memories of the days gone by. 

{^A pause.) 
But duty bids that we should hurry on. 
Nor lose the precious moments longer. 

(Hannibal is about to turn away when he observes 
and recognises the ring on KATHARNA'syf;i!^^r.) 

Hannibal (starting forwara). 

Ha! 

.My ring ! Katharna ! what a dreadful fate ! 

{Asiiie.) 
Oh, cruel Gavius, had you ne'er been born ! 
How different had all been but for your crime ! 

(Katharna ope?ts her eyes a?id gazes at Hannibal.) 

Katharna. 

O Hannibal, my only love ! Alas ! 

{^She smiles faintly,) 
My evening star that heralds coming night. 



1 88 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Hannibal {^passionately). 
Would I might die, and so remain with you ! 



i^A pause, ) 



The sacred cause of Carthage claims of me 
That I must live and serve it. Tell me, love. 
Why did you not make yourself known to me 
So lately in the garden where we met ? 
For then I could have shielded you from harm, 
And still before us now there might have beamed 
A bright and constant ray of happiness. 
Cheering us on our road, howe'er beset : 
But now the evil work is done ! 

Katharna. 

Forgive, 
Forgive me, Hannibal ! Indeed I feared 
Our love would rise like some wild stream in flood. 
Sweeping before it every obstacle, 
Engulfing in oblivion all our cares 
And our stern duties in the present war. 

(^A pause!) 
Fast ebbing strength forbids me to disclose 
More of my life since first I quitted Spain ; 
And yet a word will tell its chief success. 
My influence sent Hasdrubal to your aid ; 
I ever sought your interests, be assured. 
When I am gone, seek faithful Hercta's help 
At her new home within the city's bounds ; 
She wed Muthumbal, scribe to Malchus, there, 



HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 89 

And will explain to you my works and ends, 
My wanderings, and efforts in the cause ; 
But for this wound I would still serve it more, 

And even yet, perhaps 

i^She partly raises herself^ but sinks back exhausted^ 
and after a pause resumes faintly?) 

No, no — too late. 

(^ pause after which she continues : raising her 
hand towards the sky, and following its direction 
intently ivith her gaze ^ 

Father, accept the offerings that I bring. 

(Hannibal and Gisco respectfully withdraw a little, 
and Hannibal turns partly away to conceal his 
grief. Katharna continues^ 

Though Rome may rue the deeds of Gavius, 
Enough of Roman blood has not been shed 
To soothe your manes and give your spirit rest : 
Take mine ! Take mine ! 

{Raising herself a little, she tears open her wound ^ 

Gisco {springing forward to prevent her). 
Stop ! stop ! 

Hannibal {turning towards them). 

'Tis done ! 



ifett 



190 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 

Katharna {sinking dow7i). 

Take mine ! 

(Hannibal hastens to her and finds her dead. 
Enter Hercta, Muthumbal, and the Messenger. 
Hercta hurries to Katharna.) 

Hannibal, 

Truly a deity in a woman's form. 

Empires might draw life from her sunny smiles ; 

Whole nations reeled, thrones tottered at her frown ! 

{Curtain^ 



THE END. 



